Electricity in Philippines in 2023

As of 2023, the Philippines relies heavily on fossil fuels for its electricity needs, predominantly through coal generation representing almost 70 TWh and further supplemented by gas at a little over 16 TWh. In contrast, the production clean, low-carbon electricity remains low with figures standing at just over 25 TWh, inclusive of geothermal, hydropower, solar, and wind. When compared to the global average electricity consumption per person of 410 watts, it can be discerned that strides towards lower emissions and sustainable electricity generation are to be made. The implications of high reliance on fossil fuels extend beyond environmental effects to societal impacts such as adverse health outcomes from pollution and the inability to develop a self-sufficient, sustainable energy infrastructure.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, the Philippines could look at lessons from countries like the People's Republic of China and Brazil, which generate significant amounts of wind energy, 964 TWh, and 94 TWh respectively. Given the Philippines’ geographical features similar to these nations, harnessing wind energy can be a viable and substantial source of clean electricity. Additionally, with solar outputs from People's Republic of China and India at 523 TWh and 120 TWh respectively, the implementation of solar infrastructure could considerably elevate the contribution of clean power to the national grid. The inspiration from these nations and the adoption of their strategies could dramatically boost the Philippines' green energy production.

History

In the history of the Philippines' low-carbon electricity development, the period from 1984 till 2023, two major energy sources, hydro and geothermal, have seen notable fluctuations. In the phase spanning the late 80s to early 90s, hydro power saw marginal growth with the biggest leap registered in 1999 at 2.8 TWh. Similarly, geothermal power followed an inconsistent trajectory, with a considerable peak in 1998 and 1999 at 1.7 TWh. However, from the late 2000s onwards, both sources witnessed significant fluctuations, with alternating periods of gains and declines. The recent years have shown a slight decline in geothermal power offset by increased hydroelectric output. Despite these fluctuations, it should be noted that hydro and geothermal power contributed considerably to the country's low-carbon energy mix throughout this period.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources