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The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), known as the “Watershed Cradle of the North,” has mountainous terrain and abundant natural resources that offer opportunities to diversify the Philippine energy mix. The Cordillera Renewable Energy Master Plan (CREMP) 2024–2033 serves as a strategic roadmap for developing the region’s energy resources while balancing renewable and traditional energy sources.
This article explores the highlights of the CREMP, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach to achieving energy stability, reliability, and resilience for the Cordilleras.
A Balanced Approach to Energy Security
The CREMP 2024–2033 builds upon the Cordillera Energy Producer Master Plan (CEPMP) 2004–2013, which previously identified CAR’s hydropower potential at 3,580 MW, representing 25% of the country’s total. Hydropower continues to be a cornerstone, with 95% of the estimated 8,253.96 MW renewable energy potential coming from this source. Recent assessments highlight 7,548.94 MW of renewable potential across 232 identified sources, guiding future investments in hydropower, solar, wind, and waste-to-energy systems.
These renewables are intended to complement traditional energy sources rather than replace them. During periods of low renewable energy output, coal and natural gas are used to provide baseload power to meet energy needs. The objective is for stability and reliability during peak demand and adverse weather conditions.
Projects and Investment
The Man-asok Hydro Energy Power (HEP) in Benguet and Bulanao HEP in Kalinga are examples of notable hydropower projects that continue to lead CREMP’s initiatives. These are complemented by solar and wind developments with a focus on hybrid systems blending renewable with traditional backups to ensure continuous power supply.
Key investment needs include PHP 114.13 billion for hydropower and biomass projects, alongside government funding for the Sitio Electrification Program (SEP) and the Transmission Development Plan 2023–2040. These projects aim to bring reliable and clean energy to underserved areas while addressing the region’s growing energy demand, which reached 372.714 MW in 2023.
Fortifying the CREMP 2024-2033
To further reinforce its goals, the Cordillera Renewable Energy Master Plan (CREMP) 2024–2033 identifies the critical need for streamlining policies and regulatory frameworks to expedite project implementation. Key steps include rethinking processes like Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC), streamlining Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), and fine-tuning the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA). The goal is to reduce delays while ensuring that local communities truly benefit, the environment is protected, and opportunities are created to attract private sector investments.
The vision of the CREMP is to adopt a unified approach to CAR’s renewable energy potential through collaboration between local government units and private stakeholders. At the same time, the plan aims to maintain a stable energy mix that avoids reliance on a single power source.
Building a Resilient Energy Future
The CREMP 2024–2033 emphasizes the modernization of infrastructure and energy systems to improve resilience and accessibility. Investments in grid upgrades, energy storage technologies, and rural electrification programs are critical components of the plan. These initiatives aim to provide stable electricity to remote communities and mitigate system losses caused by CAR’s challenging terrain.
By combining renewable and traditional energy resources, the Cordilleras aim to build a sustainable energy future that remains resilient to challenges posed by natural disasters and growing energy demand.