As the country’s energy demand is expected to triple by 2040 in face of dwindling energy reserves, the Department of Energy (DOE) has adopted an active stance and has promised to embark on taking giant steps to ensure that the demand would be met.
To ensure energy security, DOE Assistant Secretary Redentor Delola explained that this would necessitate the construction of an LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) Terminal for “Clean Energy City,” inviting audit and assessment for power generation and transmission, and accelerating the total privatization of PSALM (Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management) assets.
“Energy access will also have to be expanded to ensure affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all,” Delola said. “This can be done through the 100 percent electrification of targeted identified households nationwide by 2022. We will also have to connect the Mindanao grid with the interconnected Visayas and Luzon grids by 2020 to increase power supply reliability.”
The DOE projected that the country would need an additional 43,765 megawatts by 2040 to meet the projected peak demand.
Road to 2040
Speaking before the Energy Investment Forum and Stakeholders Conference held at an uptown Cebu hotel, the assistant secretary also batted for the promotion of a low carbon future by promoting technology innovation through research, development, demonstration, and deployment.
The conference enabled the DOE to bring the E-Power Mo Campaign to Cebu, which is designed to empower energy consumers and stakeholders by educating them on their energy options, so they can make informed choices.
Another strategic direction en route to the 2040 goal is the strengthening of collaborative efforts among all government agencies involved in energy and energy-related issues. This will entail, among others, the capacity and competency building of human resources of the “Energy Family” in the organizational, administrative, financial and legal areas.
“We will also need to collate sectoral and technological roadmaps and action plans involving all energy sources and varieties,” Delolo added. “This, plus the advocacy of the passage of the department’s legislative agenda and issuance of rules and regulations on natural gas, LPG, and Petroleum Upstream Regulation.”
The event served as the President’s energy policy agenda with the following objectives: Develop and utilize the energy resources available for wealth creation and global competition; undertake safety and savings measures through energy efficiency; secure the delivery of quality and reliable energy services; and empower consumers through a wide variety of options in using varied energy sources.
 
By RICHARD RAMOS