The Philippines’ Department of Energy (DOE) has announced its intention to align the electricity requirements of data centers with investors who are establishing renewable energy (RE) facilities in the country.
The Philippines is seen as a viable market for data centers because of its digitization initiatives and growing use of e-commerce. Hence, data center developers from foreign countries are witnessing a high demand for data centers in the country.
In fact, the majority of these developers are already present in the country and are actively seeking appropriate locations, be it lands or buildings, to construct their data centers.
However, considering the significant energy demands of these digital enterprises, there is a growing imperative for them to reduce their carbon footprints. As a result, one viable option for them is to choose renewable energy (RE) as their primary source of energy supply.
According to Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla, a number of investors presented their need for renewable energy, that’s why they are encouraging renewable energy sources; and they can pair them off with those who are providing green energy sources.
He highlighted that data center investors have the opportunity to explore a specific avenue for sourcing green energy, which is the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP). This program serves as a procurement mechanism for power supply, enabling consumers to exercise their choice in selecting preferred suppliers, particularly those that offer green energy sources.
He also emphasized that within the framework of the Green Energy Option Program, data center investors have the option to choose renewable energy sources. This aligns with the government’s policy and supports their commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Lotilla acknowledged that the alignment between data centers and renewable energy (RE) reflects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s emphasis on prioritizing climate change in energy development planning.
In February, PH President welcomed the proposed establishment of two hyperscale data centers in Luzon that would use 100% renewable energy sourced from solar, wind and hydro to sustain its 700 MW monthly power consumption of its data centers.
This pairing highlights the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
