The Department of Energy (DOE) has stressed the importance of completing critical infrastructure projects in the country to achieve the renewable energy (RE) target by 2040. During the 49th Philippine Business Conference and Expo, Energy Assistant Secretary Mario Marasigan presented the DOE’s strategy for bolstering the economy.
Marasigan highlighted the government’s focus on the power generation sector to facilitate future renewable energy development. He mentioned the need for additional infrastructure development, particularly in terms of the transmission system, interconnections, and ports necessary for offshore wind energy projects. Offshore wind energy, harnessed from the high seas, is considered a form of renewable energy known for its consistent wind speeds due to the absence of land-based obstructions.
In addition to public-private partnerships (PPP), Marasigan noted that the energy sector is collaborating with various government agencies. He discussed plans for automation by 2040 in partnership with the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) and mentioned the potential for smart homes and digital infrastructure to support automated metering systems.
Marasigan explained the Energy Virtual One Stop Shop Act (EVOSS), a digital platform that streamlines the permitting process for power generation, transmission, and distribution projects, in cooperation with other government agencies.
Marasigan underscored the significance of focusing on renewable energy as a major component of the Philippines’ energy mix, which can alleviate pressure on other energy resources and revitalize the natural gas industry.
The DOE’s ambitious goal for 2040 is to achieve 52,826 megawatts (MW) of additional renewable energy capacity, a sevenfold increase from the current level. Solar energy is expected to constitute 51.5 per cent (27,162 MW) of the new capacity, while wind energy will contribute 16,650 MW. The remaining capacity will be generated from hydro, geothermal, and biomass sources.
