In a significant step toward advancing data-driven and transparent governance in the energy sector, the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) have signed a landmark Data-Sharing Agreement to enhance policy development, improve market oversight, and facilitate informed decision-making.
The Agreement was signed by Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla and ERC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Monalisa C. Dimalanta at the DOE’s main office in Taguig City. This strategic partnership establishes a structured framework for the secure, timely, and real-time exchange of critical energy data between the DOE and ERC. By institutionalizing coordinated data-sharing mechanisms, the two agencies aim to enhance policy development, optimize regulatory oversight, and ensure more informed, responsive decision-making across the energy value chain.
Under the Agreement, designated focal persons from both agencies will be responsible for facilitating efficient data transmission and coordination. The Agreement also mandates the implementation of robust data security protocols, ensuring integrity, confidentiality, and protection of shared data throughout its entire lifecycle --- from collection and transfer to storage and utilization.
“This data-sharing agreement would enable a better data exchange to address the complex and evolving challenges in the energy sector,” Secretary Lotilla said.
“By enabling secure and timely access to reliable data, we strengthen our capacity to craft smarter energy policies, deliver better public services, and respond decisively to the needs of consumers and stakeholders,” he added.
The data-sharing initiative will cover key areas across the electric power industry and renewable energy development, including but not limited to power generation, grid integration and transmission development, distribution systems, market operations, off-grid electrification initiatives, and implementation and tracking of ER 1-94 program benefit-sharing mechanisms.
For her part, Chairperson Dimalanta highlighted the significance of the Agreement in enhancing regulatory processes. “Data is at the core of responsive regulation. This Agreement allows the ERC to better assess system performance, anticipate emerging issues, and design regulatory interventions that truly reflect conditions on the ground. This partnership will also make it easier for our stakeholders to comply by avoiding duplicative filings through streamlined processes across energy agencies," Chairperson Dimalanta said. "More importantly, this institutionalizes a culture of openness and cooperation that is essential to achieving our shared goal of delivering reliable and affordable electricity to all Filipinos,” she added. All shared data will be transmitted in accordance with clearly defined operational protocols to uphold the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and data governance. “Data is also the new infrastructure for development,” Secretary Lotilla added. “Through this partnership, we are laying the foundation for a more responsive, efficient, and inclusive energy sector --- one that is grounded in evidence, guided by transparency, and committed to delivering affordable, sustainable, and reliable energy for all Filipinos," she added. ###