QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- “The Green Energy Option Program (GEOP) gives the Filipino people a potent weapon against the volatility of fossil fuel costs and unreliability of coal-fired power plants exemplified by recent power outages.”

This was highlighted by Nazrin Castro, Manager of The Climate Reality Project Philippines, in reaction to the recent promulgation by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) of the rules governing the GEOP, a mechanism that allows electricity end-users with 100kW or above demand to source their electricity from renewable energy sources.

“The GEOP is one of the game-changing provisions of the Renewable Energy Act of 2008. We are happy that consumers can finally exercise their right under the law to shift to renewable energy as their source of electricity.” Castro said. “Moreover, the GEOP will address the clamor from the private sector for the development and expansion of clean and indigenous energy options that will meet the demand for affordable and reliable power,” she added.

Last month, Toyota Motor Philippines, the largest automotive company in the country, together with AC Energy, First Gen Corporation, SN Aboitiz Power Group, and other leading companies in the country issued a joint statement expressing full support for the rapid and full implementation of the GEOP.

“Electricity end-users, especially big corporations and small and medium enterprises, must be made aware that they now have the power to drive the country’s clean energy transition while making their operations more competitive by veering away from coal,” Castro noted.

Moving forward, Castro said that Climate Reality Philippines will amplify and support the Department of Energy’s information, education, and communication campaign for GEOP. (TCRP/PIA-NCR)