The Department of Energy (DOE) announced today that it will hold a special Green Energy Auction (GEA) in January 2026 dedicated to waste-to-energy (WTE) projects that will source feedstock from Metro Manila and other Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs).

The DOE said the target completion date for projects awarded under this auction is by the fourth quarter of 2027.

According to the National Solid Waste Management Commission’s (NSWMC) 2024 data, Metro Manila and HUCs generate an estimated 6.12 million metric tons of municipal solid waste, equivalent to 335 megawatts (MW) of baseload capacity.

The department said the Notice of Auction and Terms of Reference will be released within October, giving interested participants time to meet registration requirements ahead of the auction.

The DOE also plans a follow-up auction round by the second quarter of 2026 for biomass and WTE projects located across the country.

As an emerging renewable energy technology, WTE development forms part of the government’s strategy to address solid waste management challenges, mitigate flooding, and expand clean energy capacity.

The DOE said the initiative supports the goals of the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) and aligns with the country’s renewable energy targets of 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040.

“The integration of WTE projects into the GEA framework underscores the DOE’s commitment to ensuring energy security, environmental protection, and private sector participation in the country’s transition to clean and sustainable energy,” the Department said.

What are your thoughts on the DOE’s plan to expand waste-to-energy under the Green Energy Auction framework? How could this shape the Philippines’ renewable energy landscape? Share your views below.

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