The Department of Energy (DOE) said five renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of 128.9 megawatts (MW) are now operational. This is part of its goal to bring 25 renewable energy and energy storage projects online within the month.
The newly operational projects include solar and biomass facilities located in Hermosa, Taft, Cordon, and Arayat, as well as a biomass plant expansion. Together, these projects contribute to the government’s efforts to boost power supply and meet rising electricity demand.
The DOE said these early completions support grid reliability, strengthen reserve capacity, and reduce dependence on imported fuels. The remaining 20 projects, with a total target capacity of about 1,471 MW, are in the final stages of grid integration and are expected to be operational soon.
To avoid delays, the DOE is coordinating with key agencies to address issues related to transmission, inspections, and system connections.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin welcomed the progress, saying renewable energy projects help improve energy security and promote a cleaner power system, especially amid global fuel price uncertainties.
Meanwhile, the DOE said existing rules already allow exemptions to the moratorium on new coal-fired power plants during emergencies. This comes after suggestions from economic planners to revisit the policy due to rising global fuel costs. Garin noted that coal remains one of the cheapest power sources during crises, but any policy changes will be carefully studied.
The DOE also announced a weekly energy-saving campaign, encouraging the public to turn off non-essential lights and unplug unused appliances every Saturday from 8 to 9 p.m. The initiative aims to promote responsible electricity use nationwide.
