Most Pinoys say boosting PH renewable energy sources important - survey

The majority of Filipinos believe in the importance of boosting the country’s renewable energy sources, according to a recent poll conducted by Pulse Asia.

Commissioned by Stratbase ADR Institute, an independent, international research organization, the survey found that 85% of respondents answered that increasing the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower is important — with 46% saying it was “super important,” and 39% respondents answering it was “somewhat important.”

Another 13% could not decide whether it was important or unimportant, while 2% said increasing renewable energy sources was not important.

Broken down geographically, the highest percentage of respondents citing the importance of seeking additional sources of renewable energy was recorded in Metro Manila at 94%, followed by the Visayas region at 92%, Mindanao at 86%, and balance Luzon at 79%.

In terms of classes, Class D had the highest percentage of respondents citing importance at 86%, followed by Class E (83%), and Classes A-B-C with 72%.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr earlier stressed the importance of the Philippines shifting to renewable sources of energy. 

For its part, the Department of Energy (DOE) aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the power generation mix to at least 35% by 2030, and to 50% by 2040.

“While there are numerous efforts and initiatives to support the country’s energy transition, unlocking the full potential of RE will require new grid and system management initiatives,” Energy Undersecretary Sharon Garin said in a statement.

This month, the DOE amended a section of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Renewable Energy (RE) Act of 2008, allowing foreign investors or companies to engage in the exploration, development, and utilization of Philippine renewable energy sources.—RF, GMA Integrated News