STORAGE systems like batteries, which can make intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar suitable for servicing baseload needs, are crucial to the country’s energy security, said a senator who is set to file a bill that will promote the technology.
“We have to look at emerging technologies such as batteries and other energy storage systems. We’re also in the midst of filing a bill to promote energy storage which includes batteries,” Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian said in a statement on Sunday.
He also said the country should consider tapping advancements in nuclear energy.
“No matter how controversial, we should also look at new technologies for nuclear power such as smaller modular reactors and generation IV nuclear reactors,” said Mr. Gatchalian, vice-chairperson of the Senate Committee on Energy.
The lawmaker said the Philippines will have to explore different options amid expectations of higher electricity demand as well as to transition towards cleaner energy.
“Although this needs a little more time, we have to look at these emerging technologies since we also have no law or any single regulation on these. We can come up with a corresponding legislation,” he added.
Meanwhile, Energy Regulatory Commission Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Monalisa C. Dimalanta said the agency is still targeting to release a regulatory framework for emerging technologies this year.
“We are just waiting for DoE (Department of Energy) first to issue their updated policy then we will be ready to issue ours as well for public consultation,” Ms. Dimalanta said in a Viber message to BusinessWorld on Sunday.
Mr. Gatchalian noted that emerging technologies will play a vital role in improving the country’s energy supply and security because the Philippines heavily relies on fossil fuel plants.
“Because we import a huge chunk of fuel for our electricity supply, any disruption overseas such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, usually impacts the electricity, fuel cost and livelihood of our poorest folks. This is why we need to continually look for all possible ways to improve energy security and supply of electricity in our country,” he said.
Coal-fired power plants dominate the Philippine energy mix with a 57.5% share in gross power generation, while renewable energy, natural gas and oil-based sources contribute 23.4%, 17.7% and 1.4%, respectively. — Ashley Erika O. Jose