MANILA (PIA) – Amid the government’s drive to secure sufficient energy sources, the Department of Energy (DOE) has commissioned the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to undertake an updated inventory of prospective sites for new hydropower developments in the country.
In a statement, the DOE hinted at the project proposal for the hydropower site survey deemed as approved in principle, adding that a detailed design survey is already underway to determine the project scope.
“The Philippines’ project proposal for the inventory of hydropower potential sites in the Philippines submitted to the JICA has been approved in principle,” the agency said.
The hydropower site survey forms part of the strategic energy cooperation between the Philippines and Japan, which was discussed in a recent meeting between Philippine Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla and Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi.
“The meeting underscores the unwavering commitment of both nations to enhance their robust and dynamic partnership on energy,” the DOE added.
Beyond the proposed hydropower project, the energy cooperation also includes continued lending by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to various energy projects in the Philippines.
The Philippines is also looking at Japan for “transition financing and access to clean technologies” to support the country’s energy transition goals, Lotilla said.
The energy partnership is anchored on the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC), Japan’s initiative to address climate change and promote sustainable development in the region. As a member of AZEC, the Philippines has actively engaged with Japan on various decarbonization efforts and projects.
“The Philippines and Japan share a robust and dynamic partnership built upon mutual respect, shared values, and common goals,” Lotilla said, adding that the partnership will continue to strengthen the strategic energy cooperation between the two nations. (JVD/PIA-NCR)
Thumbnail photo courtesy of Department of Energy (DOE).
