Sustainable Energy Transition of the Poor Rural Communities in the Philippines

Abstract

The Philippines might have a significant share of RE in its national energy mix; however, it does not necessarily lead to long-term RET adoption, especially in poor rural areas. The rural poor could not take advantage of the more intangible benefits of RETs -- beyond lighting and more of means to have additional sources of income or livelihood. The current RE policies are more concerned with the number of RETs installed than to achieve sustainable and equitable energy. A more coherent promotion of RET development at a local and community level would help achieve energy sustainability, especially in the areas that need electricity the most.