The Department of Energy (DOE) has issued Certificates of Energy Projects of National Significance (CEPNS) to a total of 149 power generation and transmission projects from May to December 2024, following the resumption of CEPNS issuance in October 2023.
These 149 certified projects are expected to contribute 19 gigawatts (GW) of additional power generation capacity — 17.6 GW from 91 renewable energy projects and 1.5 GW from four conventional power plants. The DOE has also granted CEPNS to 29 transmission projects, 24 microgrid system projects, and one exploration project. Most of these projects are set to be completed in the next two to five years.
The issuance of CEPNS was suspended in December 2020.
In April 2024, the DOE issued Department Order No. DO 2024-04-0003 which redefines and revises the CEPNS framework to enhance its implementation.
Under the revised guidelines, major energy projects eligible for CEPNS certification are those identified in the Philippine Energy Plan, including power generation, transmission, distribution, and ancillary services essential for grid stability and load growth. The DOE shall also certify energy projects as energy project of national significance (EPNS) if they involve a significant capital investment of at least PhP3.5 billion.
Additionally, projects granted CEPNS will receive priority processing and expedited approvals from permitting agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations, local government units, and other relevant authorities. To further streamline regulatory processes, CEPNS holders may apply for required permits from multiple agencies simultaneously, without waiting for sequential approvals.
The revised framework also grants automatic CEPNS qualifications to renewable energy projects eligible under the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) System, those selected through the Green Energy Auction Program, and projects that support the country’s energy transition goals in line with DOE policies promoting clean energy.
CEPNS certifications likewise remain valid until the commercial operation date of the project.
From 2017 to 2020, prior to the suspension of CEPNS issuance, the DOE had approved similar 149 energy projects with a total investment of PhP795 billion. Among these, 133 projects have reached the commercial stage, while 16 are in pre-development. Based on monitoring reports from project proponents, 52 out of 133 commercial-stage projects have secured all required permits, while 4 out of 16 pre-development projects have completed their permitting requirements. The remaining projects are in various stages of permit applications, with 40 EPNS projects yet to secure any permits. Of the 149 previously certified EPNS, 57 are transmission projects in the commercial stage.
The DOE remains committed to ensuring the timely development of critical energy projects that support the country’s energy security, economic growth, and transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future. Under the CEPNS framework, more projects are currently under assessment.
“The timely development of critical energy infrastructure is essential to securing our nation’s energy future. By facilitating investments in power generation and transmission in an efficient and timely manner, we are not only strengthening our energy security but also accelerating our transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy system,” Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla said. (DOE)
