Philippine power agenda targets cost and supply challenges

DOE backs law changes, solar access, and new generation projects.

The Philippines’ Department of Energy (DOE) has outlined its power sector priorities following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address, focusing on electricity affordability, energy security, generation capacity, and clean energy development.

The DOE said it will pursue reforms and programmes aimed at reducing electricity costs, strengthening energy security, and supporting the development of indigenous and renewable energy resources.

“Our task now is to turn that vision into reality through decisive reforms, stronger investments, and sustained collaboration across government and the private sector,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.

The department said it will support legislative reforms, including amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, and measures to reduce consumer burdens such as systems loss charges.

It also cited the proposed Sariling Kuryente Act, which seeks to make rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems more accessible and affordable for Filipino households.

The department is advancing power generation and storage projects through the DOE Task Force for 200 Energy Projects, which covers almost 10,000 megawatts (MW) of additional generation capacity and more than 1,700MW of energy storage systems.

The DOE said these projects will improve grid flexibility and reliability whilst supporting the electricity needs of households and industries.

The government is also pursuing energy security measures through diversified fuel sourcing, strategic petroleum supply management, additional generation capacity, expanded energy storage, and investment in critical energy infrastructure.

The DOE said the country will continue developing renewable energy projects, indigenous energy resources, natural hydrogen, and the Malampaya gas field, whilst revisiting nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy strategy.

The Philippines will also continue regional energy cooperation through the ASEAN Petroleum Security Framework and the future ASEAN Power Grid.