Rooftop solar is now cheaper than imported coal, Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla said September 5, and it’s also less prone to price fluctuations. Woods reports that “electricity from a coal plant costs up to PHP5.50 per kWh (US$0.13) plus PHP6.50 (US$0.15) for distribution and transmission, totalling PHP12.00 (US$0.28). Whereas, rooftop solar costs PHP9.00 per kWh (US$0.21) for generation,” with no transmission and distribution costs. As well, reliance on cheaper solar energy “would assist the country in increasing its energy security,” at a time when the Philippines depends on fossil fuel imports for 90% of its energy.
- Be among the first to read The Energy Mix Weekender
- A brand new weekly digest containing exclusive and essential climate stories from around the world.
- The Weekender:The climate news you need.
