DOE Chief Strengthens Ties with Trans-Pacific Countries to Accelerate Development of Renewable Energy

MEDIA RELEASE
April 10, 2013

Sec. Petilla image

(Taguig City) – Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Carlos Jericho L. Petilla called on Trans-Pacific countries to foster cooperation in developing renewable energy (RE).

Speaking in the Pacific Energy Summit held in Vancouver, Canada last April 2-4, Secretary Petilla highlighted the importance of RE in achieving the Energy Reform Agenda’s thrust on energy security, optimal energy pricing, and a sustainable energy system.

“Utilization of clean energy is an immediate priority of the Philippine government and we will support initiatives that will spur their development by way of transparent policies.”

The Pacific Energy Summit is an invitation-only event that convenes high-level policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to articulate regional energy needs and opportunities, as well as to explore market-based policy solutions, coordinate efforts to effectively use available technology and limited resources, and foster public-private partnerships.

With the theme, “Forging Trans-Pacific Cooperation for a New Energy Era,” the summit seeks to thresh out best practices and solutions for successfully meeting Asia’s energy needs and promoting environmental stewardship. Likewise, it aims to strengthen the Asia–North America ties which are envisioned to play a significant role in boosting energy and environmental security.

Summit participants included representatives from the public and private sector of the following countries: Philippines, United States, Canada, Singapore, Bangladesh, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Papua New Guinea, China, Indonesia, and United Kingdom.

“There should be sharing among nations in strengthening RE knowledge and technologies in terms of research, development and demonstration activities towards technology innovation and standards interoperability, capacity building through knowledge sharing, policy advice and technology transfer, and windows for financing and long term investments, among many others,” Sec. Petilla said in his speech.

The Philippines has been forging ties with other countries for RE information and technology sharing, as well as promotion of energy investment portfolio of the Philippines. Last year, the Philippines also committed to participate in the ASEAN Green Connectivity and APEC Energy Security.