ERC Speeds Up Power Facility Approvals, Boosting Philippine Grid by 24,000 MW

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has issued 3,959 Certificates of Compliance (COCs) and 334 Provisional Authorities to Operate (PAOs) from January to November 2024. These approvals, covering power facilities contributing a total of 24,092.79 megawatts (MW) to the national grid, aim to strengthen grid security and promote affordable electricity rates across the Philippines.

November Approvals Highlighted
In November 2024 alone, the ERC approved 321 COCs and 19 PAOs for generation companies (GenCos), Self-Generating Facilities (SGFs), Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), and Qualified End-users (QEs) in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

COCs authorize the operation of power generation facilities, while PAOs enable GenCos to commence operations pending the issuance of COCs.

Legal Framework and Efficiency Gains
The ERC’s issuance of these permits aligns with Section 6 of Republic Act No. 9136, also known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA), which requires new power generation facilities to secure regulatory approval before commencing operations.

The Commission has significantly improved its processing times for COCs and PAOs, completing approvals within 30 to 45 days—well below the 60-day timeline mandated by the Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS) Law.

“This expedited process not only bolsters energy security with additional grid-connected capacity but also offers cost savings to consumers who generate their own power,” ERC Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta stated.

Driving Energy Security and Affordability
The ERC’s streamlined procedures and efficient permit approvals support the country’s broader goals of ensuring a stable energy supply and reducing electricity costs. By enabling faster integration of new power facilities into the grid, the Commission continues to play a pivotal role in the Philippines’ energy development.