DAVAO CITY – While Mindanao faces pressing energy and environmental challenges due to rapid industrialization and population growth, the national government set an ambitious target of achieving a 50 percent renewable energy (RE) share in the overall energy mix by 2030.
The target underscored the region’s commitment to contribute significantly to the national and global climate change mitigation efforts.
In collaboration with Mindanao REACH and the CentRE, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) spearheaded the Renewable Energy (RE) Congress X Mindanao Clean Energy Forum 2023 in Davao City on Monday (Nov. 20, 2023).
The two-day event will serve as a platform to gather stakeholders, experts, and practitioners in renewable energy to address the pressing issues surrounding electricity access in Mindanao.
By harnessing the potential of renewable energy solutions, MinDA aims to forge a path towards a net-zero Mindanao, where energy needs are met sustainably, and the environment is safeguarded for future generations.
In her speech, Executive Director and Undersecretary Janet Lopoz, Mindanao has set its sights on 50 percent RE and is currently standing at 31.57 percent in RE capacity.
“By setting the goal of achieving a 50 percent RE mix by 2030, we are not only demonstrating our commitment to mitigating climate change but also unlocking new economic opportunities and ensuring energy security. It’s time to elevate our ambitions and level up our actions,” she added.
While the national target is commendable, the region of Mindanao has recognized its unique potential and responsibilities in the context of the broader energy transition.
Mindanao’s significance lies not only in its abundant natural resources but also in its commitment to sustainable peace and development.
“Mindanao, with its abundant natural resources, is well-positioned to be a trailblazer in the transition to renewable energy. The island region has immense potential for harnessing clean energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower,” Lopoz emphasized.
The Mindanao 2020 Peace and Development Framework Plan demonstrates the region’s determination to lead in transforming its energy landscape.
“In our pursuit of a 50 percent RE mix, we must also prioritize inclusivity, and ensure that the benefits of this transition reach all sectors of society, especially the most vulnerable. This means actively involving local communities and governments in the decision-making processes, promoting job creation in the renewable energy sector, and addressing any potential social and economic challenges that may arise,” Lopoz added.
Additionally, while commendable efforts have been made to improve electrification levels, Mindanao continues to have the lowest electrification rate among the major island groups in the country.
In particular, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) region struggles with a dismally low electrification rate of only 40 percent, exacerbating socio-economic disparities and hindering progress in various sectors.
“Mindanao has the opportunity to be a beacon of sustainable development, and by embracing clean and renewable energy, we can build a legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations. Together, let us pave the way for a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable Mindanao,” Lopoz said. (PR/MinDA)
