US Champions Renewable Energy Storage to Philippines Amid Nuclear Cooperation Deal

The Philippines got the attention of the United States following a critical power outage in Western Visayas in January 2024, causing the latter to urge the country to use renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power for energy storage.

US Undersecretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose Fernandez discussed the matter with the Department of Energy (DOE) officials.

Fernandez emphasized the country’s capacity for renewable energy. “The Philippines is tailor-made for renewable energy with abundant sunshine and ample wind. By turning our vulnerability into a competitive advantage, we can attract the energies of the future,” he said.

He also highlighted that the solution to power outages is increasing the supply of renewable energy. He added that battery storage is instrumental in mitigating storms and low-wind days.

The president of the Philippines has set agendas to diversify the Philippines’ energy shares, prioritizing renewable energy and looking into tapping nuclear power.

Fernandez notes the benefit of attracting foreign investments, specifically in the semiconductor industry, through developing renewable energy.

“Expanding our renewable energy supplies will generate more interest from companies to invest in the Philippines, creating a synergy between clean energy and the industry of the future,” he said.

Despite growth in the country’s semiconductor industry, it still trails behind its neighbors like Taiwan, although the demand of Filipino workers and their major representation in foreign semiconductor factories is a huge advantage pointed out by the US.

Fernandez announced that the US will support the Philippines in enhancing assembly, testing, and packaging under the Chips Act to develop its semiconductor industry.

He said that the Philippines can expect recommendations from the intergovernmental body Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris on how to strengthen its semiconductor ecosystem, which is to be implemented promptly.

In last year’s presidential visit to the US, the two countries have agreed on a Civil Nuclear Cooperation Deal signed by both presidents. Discussions on the Civil Nuclear Cooperation Deal are in development.

Source: US urges Philippines to embrace renewable energy storage