Manila: The Department of Energy (DOE) announced that the moratorium on new coal-fired power plants will remain in place. It confirmed that the current power requirements of the country can be met with existing facilities and projects that are already underway.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DOE stated that projects which had secured Certificates of Non-Coverage prior to the imposition of the moratorium are still exempt. Additionally, coal power projects that are committed to expansion or have shown significant progress are eligible to apply for non-coverage. Despite ongoing concerns about power supply security, the department sees no compelling reason to either suspend or lift the moratorium at this time.

The DOE emphasized that coal-fired power plants presently under development are expected to ensure sufficient capacity to maintain grid reliability in the near future. The agency reiterated that renewable energy development is a key component of the government's long-term energy strategy. The DOE is reviewing indicative coal projects proposed before the moratorium to assess their viability, with a view to transitioning unreliable facilities to cleaner energy sources.

The department also reassured its commitment to a stable and affordable power supply while maintaining a balanced energy mix. It affirmed its resolve to continue pursuing initiatives that guarantee the reliability, affordability, and security of the country's electricity supply.