DOE pushes energy sector reforms

THE DEPARTMENT of Energy (DOE) hopes the next administration will continue the reforms that are now ongoing to make the energy sector more competitive and efficient.

“Our mandate is to ensure adequate, continuous, reliable power. Efforts to ensure that is ongoing. There is the implementation of EPIRA (Electric Power Industry Reform Act) for private sector investments and orderly competition,” Energy Secretary Zenaida Monsada told reporters.

She also cited efforts to promote open energy access (where consumers can choose their power providers), mandated bidding for power supply for distribution utilities (including private power retailers and electricity cooperatives), renewable energy market, the creation of an energy spot market in Mindanao, green energy options, and energy efficiency.

Monsada was appointed energy secretary late last year after the resignation of former Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla, who joined the senatorial race.

DOE also wants the power development plan regionalized and to clarify capacities installed for baseload (24/7 operations), midmerit, and peaking plant operation. That will guide government towards a

30-30-30-10 balanced energy mix comprising coal, gas, renewable energy and other technologies, she said.