The Philippines has passed the Energy Storage System Act as market momentum around energy storage continues to build. (Photo: Aboitiz)
Updated: Projects above 10 MW face 20% ESS mandate
The Philippines’ Department of Energy (DOE) has issued a new circular on Feb. 26, mandating the integration of energy storage systems (ESS) into the development and grid connection of variable renewable energy (VRE) power plants, including wind and solar.
Under Department Circular No. DC2026-02-0008, all VRE projects with an installed capacity of 10 megawatts (MW) or more must install ESS equivalent to at least 20% of the plant’s capacity, subject to system impact studies and technical requirements. The DOE also encourages developers to equip ESS with advanced grid-support functions, including grid-forming inverters, to help stabilize voltage and frequency and enhance overall system reliability.
