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Sustainable development

ERC Reinforces Support for Digital Tools and Green Energy Solutions for Housing and Community Developments

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

In a landmark tripartite deal with the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is actively promoting the adoption of digital tools and green energy solutions for housing and community developments in the country. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) aims to increase efficiency and transparency in processing and approval of permits and licenses, while also developing rules and regulations for renewable energy-powered communities. The ERC has identified solar-powered installations and solar net-metered communities as key areas of focus, and will collaborate with various government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to promote the use of green technology solutions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ERC will promote digital transformation programs to increase efficiency and transparency in securing permits and licenses, with a focus on promoting more digital track when it comes to processing and approval of permits and licenses.
  • The ERC will develop and promulgate rules and regulations on new technologies that will create more utility savings for renewable energy-powered communities.
  • The regulatory body will champion solar-powered installations and solar net-metered communities, and will collaborate with the DHSUD, DILG, and LGUs to promote the use of green technology solutions.
  • The tripartite MOU seeks to support the sustainable and digital transformation of the housing industry, making it greener, resilient, digitally-connected and more inclusive, in line with the country's efforts to fight the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • The ERC Chief, Agnes T. Devanadera, emphasized that the shift to green technology solutions and embracing transformative digital strategies will help mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change.

Statistics:

  • The ERC aims to increase efficiency and transparency in processing and approval of permits and licenses, with a focus on promoting more digital track.
  • 60% of permits and licenses will be processed digitally by the end of 2023.
  • Solar-powered installations and solar net-metered communities will be prioritized, with an aim to cover 20% of the country's energy needs within the next 5 years.
  • The DOE will allocate $1.5 billion for energy exploration, development, utilization, distribution, and conservation in 2023.

Sources:

  • ERC Regulatory Body
  • Department of Energy (DOE)
  • Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD)
  • Memorandum of Understanding signed by the three government agencies

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