The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Chairperson and CEO Atty. Francis Saturnino C. Juan has highlighted the importance of responsive regulation and stronger grid infrastructure to support the growing integration of renewable energy in the Philippines.
Juan delivered the keynote address, “Barriers and Opportunities: A Regulator’s Insights on the Future Grid of the Philippines,” during the ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF) 2026 held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on October 5. His address focused on grid modernization, regulatory preparedness, investment opportunities, and the challenges associated with the country’s energy transition.
Juan said regulators have an important role in managing the transition toward cleaner energy while ensuring that investment and innovation can continue without compromising public interest. He noted that effective regulation should not only focus on removing barriers or introducing additional rules but should also provide a framework that enables the energy sector to adapt to changing technologies and market conditions.
He highlighted several regulatory initiatives aimed at strengthening the Philippine power system and supporting renewable energy integration. These include ERC Resolution No. 18, Series of 2026, and the 2026 Edition of the Philippine Grid Code (PGC). He also pointed to the ongoing development of a regulatory framework for Energy Storage Systems as an important step toward improving grid flexibility and supporting higher levels of renewable energy penetration.
The ERC chief also discussed reforms in the electricity market. He highlighted the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP) and expanded participation under Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA), which provide consumers with greater opportunities to choose their electricity suppliers and participate in the evolving energy market.
Juan also emphasized the growing role of consumers and distributed energy resources in the energy transition. Net metering, demand response, and distributed energy resources can enable consumers to participate more actively in electricity markets while supporting system flexibility.
According to Juan, renewable energy development must be accompanied by measures that maintain electricity system reliability, safety, market integrity, and consumer protection. He stressed that the transition to clean energy should not come at the expense of dependable electricity services.
“The transition is not a choice between clean energy and reliable energy. We must build a system that delivers both,” Juan said.
The AEBF 2026 is being held alongside the 44th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM) and related meetings. The event brings together government representatives, regulators, businesses, investors, and other energy stakeholders from across the region.
Discussions at the forum are aimed at strengthening regional energy cooperation and advancing priorities under the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) 2026–2030. The regional framework seeks to support a secure, resilient, sustainable, and interconnected ASEAN energy system as member countries accelerate renewable energy deployment and modernize their power infrastructure.
