The Senate Committee on Energy, chaired by Senator Pia S. Cayetano, held a public hearing on Monday to review key power sector measures, including the proposed Waste-to-Energy (WTE) Act and amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) on the lifeline electricity rate.

The hearing, part of the First Regular Session of the 20th Congress, brought together government, industry, and civil society stakeholders to weigh technical, environmental, and socioeconomic impacts of the proposals.

During the session, Sen. Cayetano questioned the Department of Energy on the sustainability of WTE projects, highlighting concerns about whether there is enough waste to support continuous operation. She cited cases in Japan where WTE plants faced potential closure due to insufficient feedstock and stressed that the technology relies on a steady supply of waste. 

Cayetano also noted that the long-term viability of WTE depends on effective waste reduction and recycling programs, warning that without these, the projects could fail to achieve their intended purpose.

On the legislative side, the Committee examined Senate Bill No. 2267, first introduced in the 19th Congress, which seeks to establish a national framework for WTE facilities. Proponents present the measure as a way to address solid waste management while adding supplemental power to the grid, though environmental groups have expressed concerns over emissions and public health impacts.

Lawmakers also discussed proposed amendments to EPIRA’s lifeline rate provisions. Under Section 73 of EPIRA, as amended by Republic Act No. 11552, low-income households benefit from subsidized electricity rates exempt from the cross-subsidy phase-out. Proposals, including one from Senator Rodante Marcoleta, aim to expand eligibility and provide greater relief amid rising power costs, such as increasing consumption caps or offering direct subsidies to qualifying households.

Both measures are expected to return for further Committee review and potential plenary debate.

What are the implications of waste-to-energy regulation and expanded lifeline subsidies for future power market design and consumer welfare? Join the discussion.

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join our Viber community for more updates.