The Department of Energy (DOE) has ordered power distributors, electric cooperatives (ECs), and local governments to fast-track net metering applications, slashing processing timelines in a bid to help consumers manage electricity costs amid volatile global energy markets.

Under the directive, distribution utilities (DUs) and ECs must complete net metering processing—including technical corrections—within a non-extendible 10 working days, down from the previous 20-day period. Local government units (LGUs), meanwhile, are required to act on related permits within three working days.

The measure aligns with Executive Order No. 110 issued by Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which declared a State of National Energy Emergency as the government responds to fuel-driven price pressures linked to geopolitical tensions, including developments in the Middle East.

The DOE said accelerating approvals will allow more households and businesses to install rooftop solar systems sooner, reducing reliance on grid electricity and delivering faster savings on monthly power bills.

“Every unnecessary delay in net metering is a delay in savings for Filipino consumers,” said Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin. 

“Under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. through Executive Order No. 110, we are pushing faster, simpler, and more responsive approval processes so that more households and businesses can benefit from rooftop solar, lower their electricity bills, and strengthen their resilience against global energy price shocks,” she added.

The accelerated timelines build on reforms introduced earlier this year through a joint circular between the DOE, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Department of Public Works and Highways. The policy adopted a “no additional requirements” rule for permits and allows for deemed approval if agencies fail to act within prescribed periods.

Net metering, enabled under Republic Act No. 9513, allows qualified end-users with renewable systems of up to 100 kilowatts to export excess power to the grid in exchange for bill credits. The DOE said cutting red tape is intended to move consumers more quickly from application to actual savings, while supporting broader renewable energy uptake.

The advisory takes effect immediately and will remain in force for the duration of the declared energy emergency, unless revoked earlier. The DOE said it will coordinate with regulators and industry players, including the Energy Regulatory Commission and National Electrification Administration, to ensure nationwide compliance.

How do you see the shortened approval timelines affecting rooftop solar uptake and utility operations? Join the discussion.

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