EVERY WATT COUNTS: Phl charges ahead toward sustainable energy future

With sound government policies and innovative private-sector projects leading the way, every watt of electricity now carries the promise of a sustainable future — and the Philippines is determined not to lag behind.

- By BRIX LELIS

Garin

"Our task is simple to say but demanding to deliver: keep the lights on, keep prices fair and keep our transition just and people-centered," Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said at the opening of the National Energy Consciousness Month last week.

Garin highlighted how the country is steadily shaping an energy sector that is more secure, environmentally responsible and inclusive, guided by a forward-looking long-term energy roadmap.

"Remember that energy is the light that lets our children study at night, the power that keeps our hospitals running and the electricity that sustains jobs and livelihoods. Behind every kilowatt-hour (kWh) are hopes, opportunities, and lives made better," she said.

With this in mind, Garin urged households, businesses, investors and local government units to conserve energy and adopt cleaner, more efficient technologies to help the country meet its targets.

Under the Philippine Energy Plan, the country aims to reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels by ramping up renewable energy (RE) in the power mix.

This requires increasing the share of renewables to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040 from the current 22 percent.

While coal still dominates at roughly 63 percent and natural gas makes up 14 percent, these shifts signal a growing focus on sustainable energy sources.

Energy sector priorities

As the country navigates an evolving energy landscape, the DOE has outlined key priorities to modernize the sector, improve reliability and respond to people's needs.

These include streamlining industry policies, advancing digitalization, upgrading facilities, investing in human resources and reinforcing accountability.