ERC Proposes Reforms to Make Rooftop Solar More Accessible

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is taking a major step toward accelerating renewable energy adoption by proposing sweeping reforms that will make behind-the-meter programs—such as net metering and distributed energy resources (DER)—faster, more affordable, and more accessible to Filipino electricity consumers.

Among the proposed changes are reducing net-metering approval timelines from 20 to just 10 working days, allowing fully digital applications with legally recognized e-signatures, and easing technical and cost requirements for small-scale solar installations. The draft rules also introduce automatic approvals when distribution utilities fail to meet installation deadlines for bidirectional meters, helping eliminate delays that have long discouraged consumers from investing in rooftop solar.

The ERC is likewise exploring additional measures, including multi-site energy crediting, the removal of the 1-megawatt DER participation cap, and expanded eligibility for more electricity customers—all aimed at encouraging wider participation in clean energy programs.

According to the ERC, as of June 30, 2026, the Philippines has 23,684 net-metering participants with a combined installed capacity of 232 MWp, alongside 181 DER participants totaling 226 MWp. The Commission hopes these figures will grow significantly once the proposed reforms are implemented.

If approved, the new framework could mark another important milestone in the country’s transition toward a more consumer-driven and sustainable energy sector. For homeowners and businesses considering solar, the proposed reforms promise a simpler, faster, and more cost-effective path to generating clean electricity while contributing to the Philippines’ renewable energy goals.

Source: https://tinyurl.com/4m99x5zn