Taguig city: An official from the Department of Energy (DOE) has emphasized the essential role of the private sector in achieving the Philippine government's ambitious targets for increasing the share of renewable energy (RE) in the national energy mix.
According to Philippines News Agency, Energy Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara, at the Net Metering Caravan in Taguig City, highlighted the growing interest in renewable energy as more Filipinos, both in households and businesses, are opting for cleaner energy sources. The government has set progressive targets to increase the share of renewable energy to around 35 percent by 2030, 50 percent by 2040, and beyond 50 percent by 2050. Currently, renewable energy accounts for approximately 25 percent of the country's total energy mix.
Guevara emphasized that achieving these targets would require extensive collaboration beyond government initiatives, necessitating action at various levels. She noted that the private sector's involvement is crucial, with well-informed individuals playing a significant role. She stated that local governments supporting renewable energy contribute to national goals, businesses investing in clean energy bolster the transition, and distribution utilities and electric cooperatives facilitating net metering empower consumers. Each Filipino household choosing renewable energy becomes part of the solution.
Guevara further explained that the envisioned energy transition should be sustainable, inclusive, ambitious yet practical, and focused on improving lives while providing a cleaner, reliable, and sustainable energy system for future generations. The DOE is advocating for increased participation in the net metering program, which allows entities with solar panel facilities to sell excess electricity back to the grid, enhancing the overall supply. Guevara added that every solar panel installation represents a commitment to greater energy resilience and a sustainable future.
In terms of reforms, the DOE recently issued Department Circular DC2026-08-0017, which covers two categories of own-use solar installations: the Self-Generating Facility Zero-Export Solar Systems (SGF ZESS) and the Micro-Solar Systems (MSS). The Circular aims to simplify the process and reduce documentation for those wishing to install solar panels without opting for net metering. Applicants for MSS are not required to present building permits or certificates of compliance from the Energy Regulatory Commission, instead undergoing a notification process with their distribution utility. For SGF ZESS, both certificate of compliance and building permit requirements have been waived, acknowledging that building permits are secured during construction.
