The Department of Energy (DOE) has launched a program to simplify the permitting process for energy infrastructure projects nationwide. As part of the initiative, the agency unveiled a standard ordinance template for local government units (LGUs) in Siquijor on Thursday.
The template is designed to help LGUs streamline approval procedures, reduce delays, and create predictable timelines for energy projects—measures intended to boost investor confidence and speed up development.
“The LGU ordinance template empowers local governments to play a key role in energy infrastructure development,” DOE undersecretary Mylene Capongcol said. “Faster permitting processes lead to improved power supply and stronger local economies.”
Siquijor, which relies heavily on tourism and its local power grid, currently has three diesel power facilities with a combined capacity of 17.8 megawatts (MW). A 4.29 MW solar project is also planned in the municipality of Siquijor.
DOE officials also shared accelerated infrastructure guidelines and updates on national and regional energy programs with the province’s LGU. Discussions included community benefits from power projects, net metering, lifeline rate expansion, and opportunities for solar rooftop installations.
The DOE said other provinces, including Batangas, Rizal, Ilocos Norte, Iloilo, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Negros Occidental, and Sorsogon, have also participated in similar consultations this year, reflecting growing adoption of the accelerated permitting approach.
