Today, as we commemorate the enactment of the Philippine Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (Republic Act No. 9513), we reflect on its ambitious vision and the urgent work needed to achieve its goals. The law aimed to accelerate the transition to renewable energy (RE), reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and combat climate change. Yet, sixteen years later, its promise remains partially fulfilled.

Progress and Shortfalls

RA 9513 paved the way for ambitious targets under the National Renewable Energy Plan (NREP), aiming for a 35% share of renewables by 2030 and 50% by 2040. However, progress has been underwhelming. As of 2023, renewables accounted for only 22.7% of the energy mix, with solar and wind contributing a combined 5%. Meanwhile, coal dominates at 55%, reflecting our continued reliance on fossil fuels.

Makakalikasan Nature Party President Roy Jerusalem Cabonegro warns:
“While the law sets lofty targets, the absence of robust implementation mechanisms and public investment has turned our renewable energy aspirations into a moving target. Our energy sovereignty remains compromised by our dependence on imported fossil fuels.”

Challenges and Gaps

Recent assessments highlight persistent barriers to achieving the Renewable Energy Act’s objectives:

1. Insufficient Government Funding:
   The 2024 national budget allocated only ₱10 billion to renewable energy initiatives—just 0.25% of the total budget. The proposed 2025 budget fails to significantly increase this figure, despite escalating climate crises.
2. Delays in RE Project Implementation:
   Bureaucratic red tape and complex permitting processes slow the development of solar, wind, and hydro projects.
3. Lack of Decentralization:
   Current policies emphasize large-scale projects, marginalizing community-led initiatives essential for an inclusive transition.

These gaps expose the need for urgent reforms to ensure equitable and sustainable energy development.

Green Agenda Comparison

The Makakalikasan Green Agenda presents a roadmap that surpasses the current NREP in ambition and inclusivity:

• Complete Fossil Fuel Phase Out by 2040:
  The party demands an accelerated timeline for phasing out coal and oil dependence, aligning with global climate justice goals.
• Community-Based Energy Projects:
  Prioritizing localized solar, wind, and micro-hydro systems to empower underserved regions.
• Substantial Investments in Energy Infrastructure:
  Increasing public financing and leveraging green bonds for infrastructure development and green job creation.

“Our vision,” Cabonegro asserts, “is a fully renewable Philippines, where energy is not only clean but justly distributed. We call on policymakers to match their rhetoric with bold investments and community-centered action.”

Policy Recommendations

In the spirit of RA 9513, Makakalikasan calls for the following reforms:

1. Increased Budget Allocation:
   Allocate at least ₱50 billion annually to RE projects to match international benchmarks and meet NREP goals.
2. Accelerated Transition Timeline:
   Revise the NREP to mandate 50% renewables by 2030 with clear accountability measures.
3. Empowering Communities:
   Ensure ownership and management of RE projects by local communities, particularly in marginalized areas.
4. Elimination of Fossil Fuel Subsidies:
   Redirect subsidies to fund RE research, innovation, and capacity-building.

Quantitative Insights and the Case for Public Financing

• The Philippines has an estimated renewable energy potential of over 250 GW, but only 12 GW have been developed.
• Annual greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, with the energy sector accounting for 54%.
• RE investments in 2023 totaled ₱72 billion, significantly short of the ₱140 billion needed annually to meet targets.

Critiques of privatization further expose structural limitations. Hydropower and geothermal energy—critical baseload technologies—remain underdeveloped because private investors often shy away from high-risk, capital-intensive projects with long returns on investment. Cabonegro underscores:

“Public financing, or even the re-nationalization of renewable energy development, is not just an alternative—it is a necessity. To ensure a just energy transition, the government must take a central role in building our baseload capacity. This is how we ensure energy security and climate resilience for future generations..”

Conclusion

As we mark this anniversary, we must renew our commitment to RA 9513’s vision by demanding stronger public financing, regulatory reforms, and inclusive policies. This is not just an energy issue but a matter of sovereignty, equity, and survival.

“Sixteen years after RA 9513, we must renew our commitment to energy justice and climate action. It is time for the government to act decisively, re-center public financing, and ensure that renewable energy fulfills its promise of equity and sustainability,” Cabonegro concludes.