DTI, ULSE Push Safety Standards in Solar Energy Sector

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and UL Standards and Engagement (ULSE) recently hosted a joint conference to promote safety and fire protection in the Philippines’ fast-growing solar energy sector.

Themed “Promoting Standards in Photovoltaic and Energy Storage Systems to Enhance Safety and Fire Protection,” the event brought together experts from the energy, safety, and engineering industries to address challenges and opportunities in renewable energy development.

The conference, which focused on the standardization of solar photovoltaic systems and energy storage safety, highlighted the importance of ensuring that products and systems in the Philippines’ solar industry meet high safety and quality standards.

As the country continues to invest in renewable energy, robust safety protocols are essential to support the expansion of solar energy and prevent potential hazards such as electrical and fire risks.

DTI Fair Trade Group Assistant Secretary Atty. Agaton Teodoro Uvero underscored the significance of establishing clear standards to support the growing solar energy industry.

“The outcomes from this collective effort will be instrumental as we develop the necessary standards to support the entire solar energy value chain,” Uvero said during his opening remarks. “This will foster collaboration on conformity assessment as we ensure the safety and quality of products and systems entering our market.”

The conference featured a series of panel discussions that covered key topics, including the standardization of solar photovoltaic systems, energy storage system safety standards, the Philippine Electrical and Fire Codes, and the National Renewable Energy Program.

These sessions provided a platform for local industry practitioners to share their experiences and insights on the evolving landscape of solar energy in the Philippines.

This event is the latest initiative in the ongoing partnership between DTI’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) and ULSE, which began in September 2020.

Since then, the two organizations have worked closely to accelerate the development of Philippine National Standards for the renewable energy sector, with a particular focus on ensuring that these standards align with global safety protocols.

With solar energy rapidly becoming a cornerstone of the country’s renewable energy goals, the development and enforcement of these standards are expected to play a crucial role in safeguarding both consumers and industry stakeholders.