ERC, MORE Power Simplify Renewable Energy Access

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

In a significant step toward promoting renewable energy in the Philippines, MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) has enhanced its Net-Metering and Distributed Energy Resources (DER) initiatives.

On November 11, 2024, MORE Power requested the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to consolidate Net-Metering and DER Certificate of Compliance (COC) applications at its Customer Care Office in Iloilo City.

“This initiative aims to simplify the application process for consumers interested in renewable energy solutions, not only in Iloilo City but also extending to Central Negros and Tagbilaran City,” said Roel Z. Castro, president and CEO of MORE Power.

The ERC approved the request, agreeing to a monthly schedule for processing applications at the Iloilo office.

Authorized ERC representatives will conduct on-site assessments to expedite the issuance of Statements of Account for submissions from MORE Power, Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC), and Bohol Light Company Inc. (BLCI).

This “One-Stop Shop” approach is designed to streamline the process and make renewable energy solutions more accessible.

Broad Support for the Initiative

ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta praised MORE Power’s proactive measures, stating, “The Commission appreciates MORE’s initiative in further streamlining the processing of Net-Metering and DER applications.”

Dimalanta emphasized the potential for Iloilo City to become a model for renewable energy adoption across local government units (LGUs).

“We look forward to more distribution utilities supporting these prosumer programs toward the realization of energy democracy,” Dimalanta added.

The initiative builds on a 2023 tripartite agreement between MORE Power, the ERC, and the Iloilo City government to establish a renewable energy one-stop shop.

Since the agreement, 33 qualified net-metering customers have been issued Certificates of Compliance, with a total installed capacity of 4,336 kilowatts generating 172,997 kilowatt-hours in October 2024.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas highlighted the initiative’s alignment with national sustainability goals and its potential to promote green practices among residents.

“This program not only promotes environmental sustainability but also helps reduce electricity costs for households and small businesses,” Treñas said.

Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez commended the streamlined process, noting its benefits for renewable energy access.

“I commend Roel Castro of MORE/Negros Power for his initiative to simplify the application process. This paves the way for greater accessibility to renewable energy solutions for our community,” Benitez said.

Awareness and Sustainability

The ERC, in collaboration with MORE Power, plans to conduct information campaigns to educate consumers about the benefits of renewable energy.

These efforts include technical and regulatory support for streamlined documentation, installation processes, payment procedures, and permitting for Net-Metering and DER applications.

The partnership between MORE Power and the ERC is set to significantly boost renewable energy adoption in the Visayas.

“This initiative reflects MORE Power’s commitment to sustainability and serves as a model for other LGUs to follow,” Castro said.

By making renewable energy technologies more accessible, the collaboration aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower electricity costs, and promote economic growth through cleaner energy solutions.

Stakeholders are optimistic about fostering a culture of sustainability in the Visayas as this program unfolds.