Philippines Strengthens National Backing for Solar Expansion

• President Marcos Jr. highlights renewed government support for solar after visiting a major rooftop installation.

The Philippines is sending a strong signal of support for solar energy after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made a high-profile visit to a 6.55-MW rooftop installation in Cavite, emphasizing the country’s commitment to expanding renewable power. The visit is being interpreted as a clear indication that the administration intends to accelerate solar adoption and improve long-term energy security.

The Philippines faces persistent challenges in electricity pricing and grid stability, making distributed solar an attractive solution for both businesses and consumers. Marcos Jr. underscored that scaling renewables is essential not only for reducing dependence on imported fuels but also for attracting higher levels of clean-energy investment into the country.

Industry observers say government engagement at the presidential level is vital for catalyzing momentum. While solar deployment has grown steadily, regulatory barriers, permitting delays and grid constraints have slowed the pace of expansion in recent years. Stronger national leadership could help remove these obstacles and unlock additional private-sector participation.

The Cavite installation — one of the largest rooftop systems in the country — serves as a showcase for the potential of commercial-scale solar. Its visibility provides a political boost to ongoing efforts to expand net metering, simplify permitting and strengthen grid infrastructure.

With rising demand for sustainable, cost-effective power, analysts believe the Philippines is well-positioned to become a regional leader in rooftop solar, provided the new wave of political support translates into concrete policy action.