BARMM to regulate local green energy projects

The authority to oversee renewable energy projects located within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will rest with the BARMM’s Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy (Menre) instead of the national government’s Department of Energy (DOE)starting next month, according to the DOE.

For this purpose, the Menre and the DOE entered into a transition agreement to ensure a smooth transfer of regulatory powers.

Both parties are targeting to complete relevant activities not later than Dec. 31, unless they agree to set a later date.

Once completed, the Menre will officially take over the administration of all relevant renewable energy service contracts and operating contracts that the DOE has awarded to concessionaires.

“This partnership will not only help drive the development of renewable energy projects but also create long-term benefits for the [BARMM], along with improved energy access, environmental sustainability and economic growth,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said in a statement on Wednesday.

As part of the transition process, the DOE’s Renewable Energy Management Bureau (REMB) will continue providing capacity building support to BARMM officials.

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This involves training and guidance on key policy and operational matters as well as guidance on the processing and award of RE service contracts and operating contracts and other registrations.

Also, the REMB will hand over to Menre the custody and responsibility over data and files relating to renewable projects in the region.