METRO

Meralco spearheads call for renewable energy use

DT

The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has partnered with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and the local government of Quezon City to advance the use of renewable energy sources in the metropolitan area.

The three parties signed an agreement to develop public-private models that support the national government’s goal of increasing the share of renewable energy in the country’s power supply to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.

The initiative aligns with Quezon City’s sustainability agenda as a member of C40 Cities, a global network of cities committed to addressing climate change.

“One of our core priorities in Quezon City has always been to make energy cleaner, more reliable and more accessible,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said. “Through this agreement with ERC and Meralco, we’re putting systems in place, clear processes, better coordination and stronger support so that more stakeholders can take part in our clean energy transition.”

The collaboration aims to streamline the application process for net-metering and distributed energy resources and to increase public awareness of programs supporting the adoption of renewable energy.

Quezon City has the highest number of net-metering customers within Meralco’s franchise area, with nearly 2,500 customers as of the end of July. The net-metering program allows customers with renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, to export excess electricity to the grid and receive credits to offset their bills.

As part of the agreement, Meralco will set up a booth at Quezon City Hall to assist with applications and other services. The Quezon City government will handle logistical requirements, while the ERC will provide technical and regulatory expertise.