DOE, ADB push RE for off-grid areas

In a continuing push to improve the power situation in off-grid communities, the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are collaborating on a program to upgrade the off-grid systems of National Power Corp. (NPC).

- BY GABRIELL CHRISTEL GALANG

During the Asian Clean Energy Forum (ACEF) on Tuesday, May 3, Energy Undersecretary Rowena Guevara noted the persistent issue of some remote areas relying heavily on diesel-based power.

"Off-grid areas, while representing only two percent of national demand, are overwhelmingly powered by imported oil—accounting for 85 percent of generation in these areas," she said in her keynote speech.

"To address this, we are working with the [ADB] on a $461-million program to help [NPC] hybridize off-grid systems and strengthen distribution lines, reducing dependence on imported fuels and lowering power costs," she added.

While the government and the Manila-based development bank are partnering to support NPC's hybridization funding, Guevara expressed optimism regarding the country's renewable energy (RE) initiatives.