Renewable is the Future: Know More About the Energy Situation in the Philippines
The Philippines is one of the 20 archipelagic countries in the world with 7,641 islands. With its geography, electrification is challenging for the government and for different power providers. Last year, the Department of Energy reported that 95.41% of Filipino households enjoy electricity while the remaining 1.1 million households do not have access to electricity.
Due to the energy situation in the country, the Department of Energy together with the National Renewable Energy Board came up with the National Renewable Energy Program 2020-2040 in accordance with the Renewable Energy Act of 2008. The Program aims to support the national development plans of the Philippine government and seeks to significantly increase renewable energy’s share in the country’s power generation mix by 2040. Let’s learn more about the goals of this program.
1. Energy Security
National Renewable Energy Program 2020 - 2040 prioritizes meeting the need for electricity across the Philippines with clean energy to reduce fuel dependence. Recently, Flitch Solutions revealed that the Malampaya gas field is expected to deplete its supply by 2024. Since this powers 20% of Luzon’s electricity, alternative options like solar, wind, or hydro energy are the safest and most secure options.
2. Sustainable Development
Sustainable Development means addressing the needs of the present without sacrificing the future generation’s capacity to attain their own needs. As we move forward as a nation with renewable energy, economic growth can be achieved while protecting the health and environment. Through this, the next generation can also enjoy clean energy.
3. Climate Change Mitigation
Renewable sources do not emit greenhouse gas emissions which mainly contribute to climate change. The Philippines committed last 2021 for greenhouse gas emissions to be reduced by 75% from 2020 to 2030. The government also increased its fund allocation for climate change-related programs to 48%.
4. Capability Building
In order to successfully implement the National Renewable Energy Program 2020 - 2040, building the capacity of the renewable energy workforce and users will have a great impact on this. By investing in education and proper training, the Philippine government can create a skilled workforce and knowledgeable end-users which will eventually drive the growth of this industry.
5. Inclusive Growth
Having access to cleaner energy in off-grid areas, specifically the remote islands in the Philippines, promotes inclusive growth by improving living standards, generating investment for domestic industries, and creating more jobs. Switching to renewable energy will not leave anyone left behind for a better future which is the ultimate goal of National Renewable Energy Program 2020-2040.
Unlike before, today’s generation has better access to renewable energy because better technology is available. Now is the right time for us to support our government with its goals to fight climate change and let the earth breathe.
