The Department of Energy (DOE) is accelerating efforts to modernize the country’s power grid and strengthen renewable energy integration as it prepares the system for growing electricity demand and the large-scale entry of variable clean energy sources.
Speaking at the Asia Clean Energy Forum (ACEF) 2026 held at the Asian Development Bank headquarters, DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina L. Guevara outlined the Philippines’ strategy for building a more flexible and resilient power system capable of supporting long-term energy transition goals.
Guevara spoke during a panel discussion titled “Minding the Gap: Addressing Grid Disruptions to Enable Variable Renewable Energy Integration,” where international energy experts examined grid stability challenges and policy interventions needed to support the shift to cleaner energy.
The session, hosted by the British Embassy Manila, also tackled market design reforms and system management tools aimed at maintaining grid reliability amid rising renewable energy penetration.
At the center of the Philippines’ approach is the Smart and Green Grid Plan (SGGP), a component of the Philippine Energy Plan 2023–2050, which lays out the roadmap for transmission expansion, grid modernization, and system readiness for emerging renewable sources.
Guevara said the plan prioritizes aligning grid infrastructure with capacity additions under the government’s Green Energy Auction Program and preparing for offshore wind projects expected to come online between 2028 and 2030.
The DOE also cited ongoing cooperation with development partners on offshore wind integration, development of ancillary services, and studies supporting the ASEAN Power Grid initiative, including interconnection planning and grid code harmonization.
According to the agency, large-scale grid upgrades are expected to unlock investments not only in transmission infrastructure but also in digital forecasting systems, engineering services, and other supporting technologies critical to a more responsive energy network.
The DOE said these initiatives are intended to strengthen energy security, improve system reliability, and ensure the stable and affordable delivery of electricity as the country transitions toward higher shares of renewable energy.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to building a modern and resilient grid system capable of supporting the Philippines’ long-term shift to sustainable energy.