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The Department of Energy (DOE) is pushing for a standardized ordinance for the provincial government of Siquijor to streamline permitting for energy infrastructure projects.
DOE Undersecretary Mylene C. Capongcol presented the Local Government Unit Ordinance Template for Energy Infrastructure Projects (EIPs) to Siquijor officials, establishing a framework for the agency’s partnership with the local government unit (LGU).
The template is designed to synergize local procedures, minimize bureaucratic delays, and ensure that energy projects can be rolled out faster and more uniformly across the province. It is hoped to serve as an institutional fix to slow and inconsistent permitting on the local level.
Local Empowerment
Capongcol also believes that the initiative signals DOE’s broader effort in empowering LGUs to embrace a more proactive role in energy development. “This collaboration with local governments will allow us to accelerate energy access while ensuring compliance and sustainability,” she said.
With its tourism-led growth, Siquijor requires reliable power. The island’s grid is currently dependent on three diesel plants with a combined capacity of 17.8 megawatts (MW) and will soon be reinforced with a 4.29-MW solar project, giving the province a steady source of clean energy.
National Template For Energy Development
The DOE also highlighted other programs that align with the LGUs policies, such as ER 1-94 benefits that LGUs can earn from energy infrastructure, the Net Metering Advancement Program that encourages solar adoption, Lifeline Rate Expansion, which protects vulnerable consumers during energy reforms, and solar rooftop promotion.
Most importantly, a national LGU template is key in removing procedural uncertainty for investors and developers. This is why the DOE is conducting similar consultations with LGUs in Batangas, Rizal, Ilocos Norte, Iloilo, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Negros Occidental, and Sorsogon.
The recent partnership with Siquijor is just the start of DOE’s nationwide campaign to simplify energy permitting and accelerate the country’s bid for greater energy security and sustainability.
Sources:
https://powerphilippines.com/doe-partners-with-siquijor-lgu-to-streamline-energy-project-permitting/
https://tribune.net.ph/2025/10/30/doe-backs-quicker-siquijor-energy-rollout
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2073823/siquijors-energy-supply-now-fully-restored