Over the period from July 2025 to June 2026, electricity consumption in the Philippines heavily relied on fossil energy, with more than half of it coming from coal alone. In total, almost 75% of electricity was generated from fossil sources, including coal and gas. Coal alone contributed about 57% to the electricity mix, while gas added another 17%. In contrast, low-carbon sources made up just over a quarter of the electricity generation. Hydropower led the low-carbon segment, generating nearly 11% of the electricity, followed by geothermal at approximately 8%. Solar and wind accounted for much smaller shares, with solar contributing about 4% and wind only a fraction above 1%. This division highlights a significant reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation, with a comparatively smaller portion coming from clean energy sources.

Is Electricity Growing in Philippines?

Despite its emerging developments, the Philippines has seen a decline in its electricity consumption recently. The latest figures, indicated at 1001 kWh per person for 2026, mark a drop of 43 kWh per person compared to the earlier record in 2024. This represents a subtle but noticeable reduction in overall electricity usage. Moreover, the sector of low-carbon electricity generation reflected a similar trend, dipping to 251 kWh per person from a previous peak of 257 kWh in 2025. The contraction in both total consumption and low-carbon generation is concerning as it suggests that the nation is not expanding its clean electricity infrastructure at a pace necessary to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and meet growing energy demands fueled by ongoing technological advancements and urbanization.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, the Philippines should look towards successful regions with robust low-carbon energy frameworks. Solar energy holds enormous potential, as evidenced by regions like Nevada and California, which generate over 30% of their electricity from solar power. Additionally, the success of nuclear-powered countries such as France and Slovakia, with over 65% of electricity coming from nuclear sources, illustrates the feasibility of significant nuclear investments. The Philippines could benefit immensely from incorporating a balanced approach that includes expanding solar installations and considering nuclear projects as they offer a continuous and reliable source of clean energy. By learning from these global leaders, the Philippines can reduce its fossil fuel dependency while simultaneously addressing the climate crisis through a transition to a sustainable energy future.

History

In examining the historical trajectory of low-carbon electricity generation in the Philippines, hydropower has played a noticeable role, with significant increases particularly noted in the late 1990s and mid-2000s. However, sporadic declines throughout this period, such as those in 1997, 1998, 2007, 2010, and 2019, reflect challenges in maintaining consistent progress. Meanwhile, geothermal energy saw promising initial expansion in the late 1990s, although it faced a setback in 2001. Recovery in the hydropower sector was seen with gains in 2008, 2011, 2017, and a remarkable increase in 2025, indicating ongoing efforts to bolster this sector. Yet, the decline in 2026 points to the need for sustained efforts to ensure resilience and growth in low-carbon electricity sectors. Additionally, the recent development in solar energy with notable growth in 2024 marks a promising beginning for this sector, emphasizing the potential for solar as a pivotal component of the Philippines' clean energy future. By learning from global leaders and leveraging its natural resources, the Philippines can achieve a secure and clean electricity landscape.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Jul 2025 – Jun 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.