In a remarkable stride towards a sustainable future, the Philippines achieved a significant milestone in 2016 by surpassing 900 megawatts (MW) of installed solar power capacity. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), the country installed a total of 903 MW of photovoltaic (PV) solar power, marking a pivotal year in the nation’s renewable energy journey.
Growth in Solar Power Capacity
The surge in solar power installations is a testament to the Philippines’ commitment to renewable energy, driven by one of its ambitious renewable energy laws. This momentum is expected to continue, with more photovoltaic plants set to commence operations in 2017. Notably, the Raslag Solar Power Plant in Pampanga, with a capacity of 13 MW, became one of the first to qualify under the government’s Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) program Phase 2.
Government Initiatives and Projects
As part of its renewable energy initiatives, the DOE reported that the country awarded 166 solar projects. These include 150 grid-connected and 16 off-grid projects, with a collective potential capacity of 4,081 MW, predominantly grid-connected. Despite the substantial potential, only 903 MW was installed by the end of 2016. Among the installed capacity, 900 MW is connected to the national grid, while off-grid projects contribute an additional 3 MW.
Broader Renewable Energy Goals
The Philippines’ Renewable Energy Law, enacted in 2008, has sparked a surge in renewable energy capacity across the nation. By 2030, the country aims to achieve a renewable energy portfolio of 15.3 gigawatts (GW), nearly tripling the 5,438 MW capacity recorded in 2010. This ambitious target underscores the nation’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable development.
Future Prospects
As of December 31, 2016, there remained 201 solar energy projects with a declared capacity of nearly 2,131 MW pending approval across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. These projects hold the promise of significantly bolstering the country’s renewable energy capacity in the coming years.
In conclusion, the Philippines’ achievement of over 900 MW in solar power capacity in 2016 marks a critical step towards a greener and more sustainable energy future. With continued investments and government support, the nation is well-positioned to meet its ambitious renewable energy targets and contribute to global efforts in combating climate change.
Source: Philippines installs over 900 MW of PV solar power capacity in 2016