The Philippine RE capacity increased by 9% in 2021 in line with global growth

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) said in a report that renewable energy (RE) capacity in the Philippines has increased by 9% in 2021 in line with global growth.

IRENA estimates the Philippine RE capacity at 7,617 MW in 2021, up from 6,986 MW in the previous year.

Global power growth was 9.1% to 3,064 gigawatts (GW), hydropower 1,230 gigawatts. Solar and wind RE projects account for 88% of new production capacity.

About 60% of the world’s new power comes from Asia, with China adding 121 gigawatts.

Hydropower capacity in the Philippines increased by 5 MW to 3,785 MW, while solar power was 1,370 MW, an increase of 312 MW.

In terms of relative growth, Bioenergy has proportionally added the newest capacity of 314 MW to 827 MW. Wind power capacity remained unchanged at 443 MW, the third year of zero growth.

IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camara says the industry’s growth comes at a time when the world is reconsidering its dependence on conventional energy sources.

“Our current energy crisis adds evidence that the world can no longer rely on fossil fuels to meet its energy needs. The money directed for fossil fuel power plants gives unpleasant results for the survival of both a nation and a planet. Renewable energy must become the norm around the world, ”he said.

Earlier this year, the Department of Energy invited bids for 2,000 MW of RE capacity, of which 1,400 MW will be generated in Luzon, 400 MW in Visayas and 200 MW in Mindanao. – Ram Christian S. Augustine