DOE streamlines processing of energy-related projects

MANILA, Philippines - After President Duterte expressed his support for coal power plant developments, the Department of Energy (DOE) is working on streamlining its processing and limitations of number of projects to support the country’s industrialization.

While coal power developments are required to secure necessary permits from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the DOE is working on its mandate to ensure reliable power supply in the country, DOE spokesman William Fuentebella said in a briefing yesterday.

“What we’re trying to look into is how to work together on how to streamline the process and at the same time, how standards should be applied,” he said.

This is in compliance with President Duterte’s pronouncement during his State of the Nation Address (SONA), saying he directed the concerned regulatory agencies to prioritize the issuance of required permits for power development.

He stressed the need for power for the country to industrialize, which he intends to do during his six-year term.

Fuentebella said there is currently a number of coal power plant applications at the power bureau of DOE but declined to give figures since the data is still being sanitized.

To determine whether the number of coal plants being developed is enough, the DOE will conduct an audit for the whole power sector, the DOE spokesperson said.

“It is included in the audit that will be conducted. It is among the things needed by developers which can really help in investment decisions. Additionally, with the the help of NGCP (National Grid Corp. of the Philippines), the audit will also help developers to locate where are the locations of a certain type of power plant,” Fuentebella said.

The audit is based on the special order issued by DOE Secretary Alfonso Cusi to the agency’s power bureau to undertake a technical audit on power plants and the distribution sector to have a better procute of the power industry.