Philippines' DOE and DOST forge partnership to strengthen renewable energy research

The Department of Energy (DOE) Philippines and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to promote collaboration in renewable energy (RE) research and development. This partnership aims to leverage the Renewable Energy Trust Fund (RETF) established under Section 28 of Republic Act No. 9513, also known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.

The RETF is designated to finance research, development, demonstration, and promotion of RE systems for both power and non-power applications. The fund supports qualified R&D institutions and public-private partnerships, including fellowships for energy studies.

In 2022, the DOE issued Department Circular, outlining guidelines for managing the RETF to ensure the effective implementation of Renewable Energy (RE) programs.

Under the MOA, the DOE and DOST, through the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), will work on projects to improve the efficiency, affordability, and scalability of various RE technologies. These technologies include solar, wind, hydro, biomass, ocean, geothermal, and other emerging energy solutions.

The agreement also aims to facilitate the practical application of research findings, promoting the commercialization of RE technologies and boosting the local green economy.

Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla and DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. signed the MOA. Secretary Lotilla emphasized the importance of this collaboration in driving innovation and addressing technical, economic, and policy challenges to enhance the adoption of RE technologies. He also noted that R&D can provide policymakers with critical insights for analyzing and developing supportive policy frameworks and market mechanisms for RE deployment.