^{Photo credit: ERC}

The Philippines’ energy regulator and the investment arm of Thailand’s state-owned power utility have opened discussions on potential cooperation, signaling possible cross-border collaboration in generation and market development.

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on February 19 hosted officials of Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand International Company Limited (EGATi), a subsidiary of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, which develops, invests in, and operates power generation projects overseas, including conventional and renewable energy facilities.

The Thai delegation, led by EGATi President Ms. Ransima Pakkoh, met with ERC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Francis Saturnino C. Juan and Commissioners Floresinda G. Baldo-Digal, Marko Romeo L. Fuentes, Amante A. Liberato, and Paris G. Real at the Commission’s Pasig office to gain deeper insight into the Philippine electricity market and identify possible areas for cooperation.

Discussions centered on the country’s regulatory architecture and investment mechanisms, including the Performance-Based Regulation (PBR) framework for distribution utilities, the Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) policy that allows large consumers to choose their suppliers, and the Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP), which competitively procures renewable energy capacity.

Senior ERC officials provided a briefing on market operations, tariff-setting methodologies, and compliance requirements — key elements for foreign generation companies evaluating entry or partnerships in the Philippine market.

While no specific projects were announced, ERC said the meeting underscores exploratory efforts to establish collaborative pathways that could support capacity development, regulatory exchange, or future investment participation. 

What forms of cooperation could deliver the most value — regulatory knowledge exchange, joint ventures, or direct project investments? Join the discussion.

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