By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Department of Energy (DOE) has resumed the Special Auction Round for Waste-to-Energy (WTE) projects, reviving a key initiative aimed at expanding the country’s renewable energy portfolio while addressing the growing challenge of solid waste disposal.
The agency announced the lifting of the suspension on the auction following a review of the program’s policies and guidelines. The move is expected to encourage greater private sector participation in developing facilities that convert municipal solid waste into electricity.
Energy officials said the renewed auction supports the government’s long-term strategy of diversifying the country’s energy sources, improving energy security, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Waste-to-energy technologies are also seen as an effective solution to minimizing landfill use and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
Under the program, qualified developers will compete for renewable energy capacity through a transparent bidding process. Successful projects are expected to help meet the country’s rising electricity demand while promoting environmentally sustainable waste management.
The DOE emphasized that all participating projects must comply with existing environmental regulations and adopt technologies that meet strict emission and operational standards.
The agency said the resumption of the auction reflects the government’s commitment to balancing energy development with environmental protection and advancing the country’s clean energy transition.
ia/xf
