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At a Talakayan sa PIA event at SM City CDO Uptown, Virgilio B. Arzadon, Senior Science Research Specialist at the Department of Energy-Mindanao Field Office, stressed the Philippines’ strategic pivot to renewable energy and the use of technology to foster sustainability. This shift is intended to tackle climate change and lessen dependence on fossil fuels, which have historically contributed to environmental degradation.
Cerael Donngay, President and Chief Executive Officer of Greenergy Solar Corporation, emphasised the global consensus on the need for renewable energy. During the event, Donngay explained that renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, are essential for reducing carbon emissions.
Solar energy, for instance, generates electricity without emitting carbon dioxide by converting sunlight directly into electrical power. Similarly, wind and hydropower generate clean energy through natural processes – wind turbines harness wind velocity to produce electricity, while hydropower uses the gravitational force of falling water to turn turbines and generate power.
The urgency for this shift is highlighted by global data: in 2018, carbon dioxide emissions reached 38 billion tons. The Paris Agreement sought to limit emissions and cap global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, but current trends suggest we are approaching this threshold, risking catastrophic consequences.
According to the United Nations, the Earth’s average surface temperature has increased by about 1.2°C since the late 1800s. This rise, coupled with the last decade being the warmest on record, is largely attributed to human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels.
In response to these challenges, the Philippine government has prioritised renewable energy through the National Renewable Energy Programme. Virgilio B. Arzadon highlighted that the programme is designed to phase out fossil fuels and increase the use of renewable energy sources. This initiative aligns with the country’s broader goal to enhance energy security, address climate change, and improve energy access.
The National Renewable Energy Programme, outlined in Republic Act 9513, is a cornerstone of the Philippines’ low-emissions development strategy. It sets a framework for achieving the goals of the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, focusing on the optimal use of the country’s renewable resources and reinforcing its commitment to a sustainable energy future.
As the Philippines navigates this transition, the integration of advanced technologies and innovative solutions will be crucial. Embracing cleaner energy sources is not only a step towards environmental sustainability but also a pathway to a more resilient and secure energy infrastructure.
For the Philippines, leveraging technological advancements in renewable energy is key to fostering long-term growth and addressing global environmental challenges effectively. It is keen to harness digital solutions to enhance national sustainability, leveraging advanced technologies to drive long-term environmental and economic benefits.
The country is also seeking international partnerships for expertise and guidance to effectively harness digital solutions and ensure long-term national sustainability. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Philippines have formalised a partnership through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance digital readiness, innovation, climate action, and renewable energy.
This collaboration, aligned with the DOST Strategic Plan 2023-2028 and the UNDP Country Programme Document 2024-2028, aims to tackle complex challenges like energy transitions and sustainable community development.
The MoU focuses on boosting Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) involvement, supporting the Green Economy Programme, and fostering broader strategic cooperation. Key initiatives include engaging multi-stakeholder collaborations, leveraging DOST’s advanced research facilities, and enhancing technical capacity through workshops and expert resources.
Such partnerships and collaborations reflect a strong commitment to driving sustainable development and addressing pressing global challenges through innovation and strategic initiatives.
