Over 11,000 MW of clean energy seen powering PH
The Philippine government’s push for more renewables is taking shape, with more than 11,000 megawatts (MW) of clean energy capacity expected to be online by 2030.
Based on data from the Department of Energy (DOE), renewables projects would outshine nonrenewable developments in terms of additions to the grid.
Solar photovoltaics remain the leading technology with 8,431.19 MW of new capacity. Of this, 7,399.73 MW is projected to be operational between this year and 2026.
Wind power comes next with 2,233.24 MW, slated for commercial operations within 2025 and next year.
Hydropower, geothermal and biomass are also seen to contribute 847.34 MW, 122.22 MW and 50.28 MW, respectively.
Aside from these, 1,934 MW of battery energy storage systems (BESS) might complement the growing clean energy facilities.
BESS is a technology that can store excess output and release it when the grid demands an electricity supply boost.
The Marcos administration has been encouraging investments in renewable energy as it hopes to cut dependence on coal. From the current 22 percent share in the power mix, it aims to increase renewables to at least 35 percent by 2030.
Nonrenewables, too
However, nonrenewable sources are still set to mark their presence, with about 7,505.74 MW of new capacity.
Coal facilities are slated to provide an additional 1,705 MW. The DOE earlier imposed a moratorium on new coal plants to cut carbon emissions and support the government’s push to shift to clean energy.
But it clarified that there was no total ban on developing coal-fired power plants in the country. Existing and operational facilities that have made commitments for expansion can still pursue these.
Oil-based sources, meanwhile, could chip in 170.74 MW. Natural gas has a bigger promise at 5,630 MW. Of this, 880 MW is scheduled for 2025 and an additional 4,750 MW still “to be determined.”
