Atty. Gladys Nalda of the Energy Lawyers Association of the Philippines (ELAP) has called for legislative actions to boost the country’s energy sector to encourage its growth.
Speaking at the PhilEnergy Expo 2024, Nalda emphasized the pivotal role of legislation, highlighting its significance in propelling advancements within the energy landscape.
Nalda advocated for “serious and concrete discussions” among Philippine legislators regarding the incorporation of nuclear energy into the country’s energy mix.
As the country solidifies its commitment to pivoting towards renewable energy sources, the government is exploring the inclusion of nuclear energy within the Philippines’ energy portfolio. The Department of Energy (DOE) has reaffirmed its commitment to exploring this inclusion, ensuring rigorous planning and implementation of safety measures.
Nalda further emphasized the necessity for more concrete guidelines and legislation concerning liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the Philippines.
“I think there’s so much potential for LNG in this country,” said Nalda. She acknowledged investors’ uncertainty about investing due to unclear legal frameworks on LNG.
In 2023, the Philippines began importing LNG following the projected depletion of the Malampaya gas field. Earlier this month however, top energy firms MERALCO Power Gen Corp. (MGen), Aboitiz Power Corp., and San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp. (SMGP) announced a landmark collaboration for a USD 3.3-billion deal to inaugurate the country’s largest integrated LNG facility.
Nalda also pointed out the need to address delays in energy transmission, emphasizing the necessity to keep pace with developments in energy generation. She said, “I know the NGCP and TransCo are both doing well with the transmission sector, but I think we have to keep up with the private sector’s interest in this kind of activity.”
Nalda said ELAP, a non-stock, non-profit organization of legal practitioners advocating for growth and innovation, is open to engaging in talks with diverse stakeholders committed to advancing the energy sector’s growth.