The Department of Energy (DOE) has developed a new mechanism designed to reduce the country’s heavy dependence on imported fuel and petroleum products. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin explained that while the draft is complete, it will first undergo consultations with other government agencies and industry stakeholders before being finalized.
The policy supports the country’s long-term goal of increasing renewable energy’s share in the power mix to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2050. As part of this shift, the DOE is promoting wider adoption of electric vehicles and accelerating surveys and contracts to develop local energy sources—lessening reliance on imports, particularly from the Middle East. Data shows that by the end of 2025, imported fuel made up about 53 percent of the nation’s total energy supply.
The department is also set to begin a study this year with the United Nations Office for Project Services to assess the effects of phasing out coal-related industries, covering mines, power plants, workers, and affected communities. It noted that plans to wind down coal will only proceed if viable alternatives and support systems are in place; otherwise, the move may be reconsidered.
As of March 2026, coal remains the largest source of installed capacity at 13,024 megawatts or 40.5 percent of the total power mix. Renewable energy—including geothermal, hydro, solar, wind, and biomass—accounts for 10,634 megawatts, or 33 percent, out of the country’s total installed capacity of 32,195 megawatts.
