Asia's Gas Power Sector Faces Delayed Impact from Oil Price Shocks

Gas-fired power operators in Asia are facing unavoidable cost increases due to oil price shocks, which impact margins and restrict output adjustments. Take-or-pay LNG contracts bind buyers to purchase volumes regardless of need, limiting flexibility amid rising fuel costs that can represent up to 90% of marginal generation costs.

Countries like Japan and South Korea are notably exposed to oil-linked contracts, while Southeast Asia exhibits varied risk levels. Regulatory and environmental constraints often dictate generation decisions over short-term price signals. Operators are implementing hedging and diversifying supply to mitigate volatility, but structural exposure from contracts persists, potentially leading to legal disputes amid disruptions.