ERC Joins INFA-Net to Fast-Track Energy Investments

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has joined the government’s push to streamline energy-related investments through its participation in the Investments Facilitation Network (INFA-Net), a move aimed at accelerating the Philippines’ clean energy transition.

ERC Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta signed the Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) on June 2, 2025, alongside other INFA-Net member agencies during a ceremony led by the Department of Trade and Industry’s Board of Investments (DTI-BOI).

The JMC, titled “Strengthening the Coordination Mechanism between and among the INFA-Net Members and Integration of the Provisions of Executive Order No. 18, Series of 2023,” aims to align government processes for projects classified as Strategic Investments.

“This initiative is about making it easier and faster for energy developers and investors to navigate government procedures,” Dimalanta said.

She emphasized that ERC’s role is critical in delivering timely regulatory approvals for key infrastructure and energy projects.

The INFA-Net partnership supports Executive Order No. 18, which established “Green Lanes” to prioritize and expedite strategic investments in energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

Under EO 18, government agencies are mandated to cut red tape and improve coordination to fast-track project implementation.

ERC’s inclusion in the coordination framework signals a stronger regulatory commitment to easing investment bottlenecks and fostering a more competitive energy sector.

Earlier this year, the ERC received the Gawad Bayanihan sa Pamumuhunan award from the DTI-BOI for its proactive issuance of Certificates of Compliance (COCs) and Provisional Authorities to Operate (PAOs) for energy developers.

“This recognition affirms the ERC’s efforts to be a responsive and forward-looking regulator that supports the country’s energy goals,” Dimalanta said.

According to DTI-BOI data, of the PHP4.69 trillion worth of 187 new projects endorsed through the Green Lanes initiative, 91% are in renewable energy.

This reflects growing investor interest in the Philippines’ low-carbon development trajectory and the government’s commitment to climate-aligned economic growth.

The INFA-Net framework is expected to boost investor confidence by addressing regulatory fragmentation, minimizing delays, and promoting inter-agency collaboration.

Energy experts say that timely regulatory approvals, especially for renewable energy, are crucial to meeting the country’s targets under the Renewable Energy Act and the Philippine Energy Plan.