The House of Representatives has approved a third and final reading of two measures aimed at improving the energy sector. This includes a bill that addresses energy storage development and another for the mandatory protection for line workers.

House Bill No. 6676, or the proposed Energy Storage Systems Act, was approved with 192 affirmative votes with three negative votes and no abstentions. The act establishes a national policy framework for the development, utilization, and commercialization of energy storage systems to boost renewable energy integration as well as power supply security.

The bill’s goal is aimed at positioning energy storage as a key component of the country’s energy transition, especially as more variable renewable energy sources are added to the grid. It also extends to both grid-connected and off-grid areas, where power supply remains limited or intermittent.

Under the initiative, the Department of Energy will serve as the lead implementing agency, while the Energy Regulatory Commission will formulate the regulatory framework governing the licensing, pricing, and cost recovery of energy storage facilities. The bill also provides incentives for renewable energy plants with already built-in storage systems.

Committee on Energy Chairperson Jose Alvarez said that these measures reflect the House’s recognition of the role of storage technologies in both stabilizing power supply and maximizing renewable energy use.

“This measure puts in place a clear policy direction for developing and commercializing energy storage systems, which are essential to stabilizing our power supply and maximizing the use of renewable energy,” Alvarez said.

The House also approved the third reading of House Bill No. 7239, or the Line Workers Insurance and Benefits Act. It was approved with 197 affirmative votes and neither negative votes nor abstentions. The act mandates insurance coverage and benefits for all line workers in the power industry.

The bill acknowledges the daily risks faced by line workers involved in the construction, maintenance, and repair of transmission and distribution facilities. Employers will now be required to provide life and accident or disability insurance, along with benefits such as retirement, mortuary assistance, and reimbursement of medical expenses for injuries sustained in the line of duty.

“Our line workers put their lives on the line to keep the lights on, and this measure guarantees that they are properly protected and supported should they be injured in the line of duty,” Alvarez said, explaining that protection under the bill will be mandatory regardless of employment status or the size of the utility.

Together, the two measures signal a broader legislative push to support the country’s energy transition while strengthening labor protection in the power sector. Energy storage is increasingly viewed as critical to improving grid reliability, especially in areas with high renewable penetration, while mandatory benefits aim to standardize worker protection across the country and industry.

With both bills clearing the House, will these measures help accelerate renewable energy integration while improving safety and security for workers who keep the country’s power system running?

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