The Department of Energy (DOE) has issued Certificates of Energy Projects of National Significance (CEPNS) to 149 power generation and transmission projects, unlocking PHP 2.4 trillion in potential investments from May to December 2024.
These projects are expected to contribute 19 gigawatts (GW) of additional power capacity, with 17.6 GW coming from 91 renewable energy projects and 1.5 GW from four conventional power plants.
In addition to power generation, the DOE also certified 29 transmission projects, 24 microgrid system projects, and one energy exploration project. Most of these initiatives are set to be completed within the next two to five years.
The issuance of CEPNS, which fast-tracks major energy projects, was suspended in December 2020 but resumed in October 2023 following a revision of the certification framework.
Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla emphasized the importance of these certifications in addressing the country’s energy demands.
“The timely development of critical energy infrastructure is essential to securing our nation’s energy future. By facilitating investments in power generation and transmission in an efficient and timely manner, we are not only strengthening our energy security but also accelerating our transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy system,” Lotilla said.
The revised CEPNS framework, outlined in Department Order No. DO 2024-04-0003, now covers energy projects identified in the Philippine Energy Plan, including power generation, transmission, distribution, and ancillary services necessary for grid stability.
To qualify for CEPNS, projects must involve a minimum capital investment of PHP 3.5 billion or support the country’s clean energy transition goals. Renewable energy projects under the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) System or the Green Energy Auction Program are automatically eligible.
Holders of CEPNS receive priority processing and expedited approvals from government agencies, local government units, and other relevant authorities. The framework also allows simultaneous permit applications across multiple agencies, eliminating the need for sequential approvals.
The DOE reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that critical energy projects are developed on schedule to support the country’s long-term energy security and economic growth.
Before the 2020 suspension, the DOE had certified 149 similar projects with a total investment of PHP 795 billion. Among these, 133 projects have reached commercial operations, while 16 remain in pre-development.
Monitoring reports indicate that 52 out of the 133 commercial-stage projects have secured all necessary permits, while four out of the 16 pre-development projects have completed their regulatory requirements. However, 40 energy projects still lack permits.
The DOE is currently assessing more projects for CEPNS certification as it pushes forward with its goal of a stable, sustainable, and resilient energy sector.
