Philippine gov’t mandates solar panels, energy-efficient tech

All Philippine government offices must now adopt energy-efficient technologies and prioritize rooftop solar installations under a new directive issued by the Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee (IAEECC).

The policy, approved during the IAEECC’s 21st meeting on Sept. 16 and chaired by the Department of Energy (DOE), enforces compliance with Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) via the Philippine Energy Labeling Program (PELP).

Officials say the initiative will reduce electricity expenses across the public sector while advancing the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP).

“Every peso the government saves on electricity is a peso we can redirect to vital services for our people,” said Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin.

“By requiring energy-efficient products and prioritizing solar rooftops, we are not only reducing costs but also setting an example for every household, business, and community,” Garin added.

“This is more than compliance, it’s a statement of our firm resolve to build a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable Philippines starting with the government,” she said.

The IAEECC is also reviewing a Joint Memorandum Circular that would mandate local government units (LGUs) to create dedicated Energy Efficiency and Conservation Offices.

These offices would be tasked with designing localized energy programs and granting communities greater autonomy over their energy use.

Participants in the IAEECC session included representatives from the Departments of the Interior and Local Government, Budget and Management, Trade and Industry, Science and Technology, Transportation, and Finance.

Also present was Dr. Mary Jean Ramos, the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Coordinating Officer from Bacolod City.

The IAEECC is scheduled to reconvene on Dec. 2, 2025, to review progress and further implementation plans.

Separately, legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives that would require all government buildings to install on-grid solar energy systems.

Filed by Rep. Joseph Sto. Niño Bernos of Abra, House Bill No. 3126 mandates a phased implementation: at least 20% of a government office’s monthly electricity consumption must be sourced from solar energy in the first year of installation, increasing to full coverage within five years.

“The government must lead the way in the shift towards renewable energy sources,” said Bernos.

“If we are to succeed in the shift towards renewable energy, the government itself should show that RE is a viable and reliable option,” he added.

Bernos emphasized that “on-grid solar energy systems are practical and have an immediate impact not only on electricity cost but also on public sector carbon emissions.”

He cited falling solar technology costs and panel lifespans of 25 to 30 years as key reasons why solar power is a cost-effective and sustainable government investment.

While the bill focuses on public institutions, Bernos encouraged private households to follow suit.

“May benepisyo din po sa ating komunidad ang pag-transition sa solar energy,” he said.

“Since we rely less on the grid, there will be more resources for our neighbors and community to use,” he added.