Philippines to Simplify Home Solar Panel Installation as Policy Drafted

The Department of Energy (DOE) in the Philippines is in the process of drafting a new policy aimed at simplifying the installation of home solar panel and battery storage systems. This initiative is intended to support the "Sariling Kuryente Act" (Own Electricity Act) proposed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin announced this on Tuesday. During his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA 2026) on Monday, President Marcos urged Congress to pass the "Sariling Kuryente Act" to further reduce electricity costs for Filipino consumers. In response, the DOE plans to issue a policy similar to the President's proposal soon. According to Secretary Garin, the new policy will cater to households that wish to install solar and battery systems solely for their own consumption, without the intention of selling excess power to distribution utilities. "With that policy, we want to simplify the requirements and lessen the bureaucracy so that it will be faster," she stated. The policy is expected to be issued within approximately one month. The fundamental objective of the "Sariling Kuryente Act" is to enable citizens to install solar power systems with reduced hassle in permits and quicker installation. This move is seen as part of the government's efforts to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy in the Philippines and enhance the nation's energy self-sufficiency. For citizens struggling with rising electricity prices, the widespread adoption of home-generated power systems could potentially lead to a reduction in their financial burden. Source: GMA Money Philippines