The Department of Energy (DOE) is actively engaging with local government units (LGUs) across the country to enhance regulatory efficiency and accelerate the implementation of energy projects. Through a series of consultations, the DOE seeks to streamline permitting processes and create a more investment-friendly environment for energy development.
Leading this initiative is Undersecretary Sharon S. Garin, alongside officials from the DOE-Investment Promotions Office (DOE-IPO), Renewable Energy Management Bureau (REMB), Electric Power Industry Management Bureau (EPIMB), and Legal and Financial Services. Undersecretary Garin underscored the importance of strong coordination between national and local governments in ensuring the timely rollout of critical energy infrastructure.
“By working closely with LGUs, we enhance regulatory transparency, improve coordination, and streamline approval processes. These efforts not only facilitate faster project implementation but also reinforce the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s energy infrastructure and advancing sustainability initiatives,” Undersecretary Garin said.
A key focus of the DOE’s engagement with LGUs is the development of a standardized energy infrastructure ordinance template, with the Iloilo Province serving as a pilot area. This initiative aims to establish a uniform framework that simplifies approval procedures, minimizes delays, and ensures a transparent and consistent regulatory approach across local governments. This is also aligned with national policies such as the Energy Virtual One Stop Shop Act and Green Lane for Strategic Investments.
One of the most common bottlenecks in energy project development is the varying timelines for the issuance of permits like LGU Resolutions of Support, which often lead to significant delays. To address this, the proposed ordinance recommends that these Resolutions be issued within a definite and transparent timeline, ensuring a more predictable and efficient approval process. LGUs should also prioritize and allow simultaneous processing of applications for Strategic Investments on Energy, issue provisional permits, and publish and post rates of fees and charges.
With Iloilo Province currently hosting three existing renewable energy (RE) projects and is set to welcome 26 upcoming projects (4 committed, 15 indicative, and 7 potential projects), this initiative is expected to accelerate the realization of clean energy investments, further strengthening the region’s contribution to the country’s energy transition goals.
By implementing this standardized approach, the DOE seeks to create a more transparent regulatory environment and accelerate the development of critical energy infrastructure that supports the country’s long-term energy security and economic growth.
As part of this broader initiative, the DOE has conducted similar consultations and site visits in Batangas, Rizal, Ilocos Norte, and Pangasinan, engaging LGUs in discussions on enhancing regulatory efficiency and facilitating investment in the energy sector. These collaborative efforts reaffirm the DOE’s dedication to creating a transparent, efficient, and investment-ready energy landscape that benefits both local communities and the national economy.
Additionally, the DOE is fostering collaboration with other government agencies, such as Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Philippine Ports Authority to ensure the effective execution of the country’s energy projects. ###
