PRRD to DENR, DOE: Continue monitoring power generation firms

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte at the Malacañan Palace on October 15, 2019. RICHARD MADELO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday directed the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Energy (DOE) to closely monitor the power generation firms in the country.

The President gave the directive as he urged the generation companies to observe existing rules and regulations set by the government.

During the switch-on celebration of San Buenaventura Power Ltd. Co. (SBPL) in Taguig City, Duterte said energy companies should provide “reliable and affordable” electricity to consumers.

“I am thus directing our relevant government agencies, especially the [DENR] and the DOE, to remain vigilant in monitoring the compliance of power generation companies with existing laws and regulations,” the President said.

“As we look forward to the future of power generation in the Philippines, with much optimism, let me assure our partners in the private sector, that this administration remains committed in harnessing the potential of sustainable [and] renewable energy in driving the growth of our economy,” he added.

In his speech, the Chief Executive encouraged other Filipino generation firms to follow the lead of SBPL by investing in “clean energy.”

SBPL, a partnership between Meralco PowerGen Corporation and New Growth BV, will supply power for 20 years to Meralco and holds power distribution franchise for 22 cities and 89 municipalities.

The 500-megawatt capacity coal-fired power plant of SBPL in Mauban, Quezon, which started operating on September 26, provides generation to the Luzon grid.

Duterte thanked the SBPL for taking a crucial step in establishing an “environment-friendly” power generation facility that would augment the current level of power supply in Luzon.

The President was also optimistic that other firms would help his administration address inadequacy of energy generation and distribution nationwide.

“Let the success of this facility serve as a testament to the vast potential of the private sector to contribute with the [government’s efforts] in addressing deficiencies in energy generation and distribution across the country,” he said.

“With substantial reform that this administration has instituted in the past three years, I can assure you that you’ll be able to pursue more effective and efficient business strategies, as long as you give utmost importance for the protection of our environment and the welfare of your host communities,” Duterte added.