The Department of Energy (DOE) is drafting a circular that will provide incentives to communities hosting the country’s first nuclear power project.
The measure is said to be part of the Marcos administration’s push to diversify the country’s energy sources and lower electricity costs.
In a virtual press briefing earlie this week, DOE Secretary Sharon Garin said the proposed policy would grant benefits to the ‘pioneer’ nuclear project, including discounted electricity for communities located near the facility.
Under the proposal, a 1,000-megawatt nuclear power plant would allocate 50 megawatts of electricity to its host community.
‘If you are within the designated radius, your electricity could be free,’ Garin said, adding that the policy aims to encourage greater interest and acceptance of nuclear energy projects.
She added that nuclear power is a reliable baseload energy source that can provide a stable electricity supply while supporting the country’s long-term energy security goals.
Garin also reported continued progress in the government’s Energy Projects of National Significance program, saying nearly 10,000 megawatts of additional generating capacity is moving toward completion during the present administration.
She said 45 energy projects have already been completed, while 31 more are expected to be finished this year. Another 124 projects are scheduled for completion by 2028.
The DOE chief added that more than 1,700 megawatts of battery energy storage systems are also being developed to improve the reliability and flexibility of the country’s power grid.
According to Garin, these projects are expected to provide a more dependable electricity supply for households, hospitals, schools, and businesses while helping create jobs and attract investments.
She said the President’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) has set the direction for the department’s work in the coming year, with priorities focused on strengthening energy security, facilitating investments, and making electricity more affordable for Filipino families.