The Philippines has finalized a cooperation agreement with Japan to accelerate energy transition and advance climate change mitigation efforts.
The Department of Energy (DOE) signed a memorandum of cooperation (MOC) with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to jointly address pressing energy and environmental issues.
The partnership is set to facilitate knowledge sharing, capacity building, joint pilot projects and policy talks on key areas, including renewable energy (RE), hydrogen, ammonia, energy storage, liquefied natural gas and carbon capture.
This is aligned with both countries’ goal of driving clean energy investments and supporting skills development in emerging energy industries, while contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
According to the DOE, the agreement would take effect immediately and remain in force for a period of four years, subject to extension by mutual consent.
The Philippines’ Energy Policy and Planning Bureau and Japan’s Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, meanwhile, will serve as the principal coordinating bodies for implementation.
‘This partnership with Japan is a long-term investment in a sustainable future. It reflects our unwavering commitment to addressing climate change and building a resilient energy sector that will power our economies for decades to come,’ Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said.
‘This is not just about reducing emissions; it’s about creating jobs, fostering innovation and improving the quality of life for our citizens. A sustainable energy sector is a foundation for a thriving economy and a healthy society,’ Garin added.
Under the Philippine Energy Plan, the government aims to expand the renewable electricity share to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040 from the current 22 percent.
The Philippines also commits to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 75 percent over the next five years.
The Philippines’ MOC with Japan was signed last week following the conclusion of the 43rd ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
DOE officials recently engaged in high-level discussions with their ASEAN counterparts and highlighted the Philippines’ progress in RE development, energy efficiency and household electrification.
This initiative reinforces the Philippines’ ongoing efforts as it prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship next year.