Electricity in Philippines in 2024
In 2024, the Philippines relies heavily on fossil fuels for electricity generation, with more than three-quarters of its electricity coming from these sources. Coal is the dominant fossil energy source, contributing more than 60% to the total electricity supply, while gas accounts for about 14%. Meanwhile, low-carbon sources make up approximately 22% of the electricity mix. Within this segment, hydropower and geothermal energy are the significant contributors, generating about 9% and 8% of the electricity, respectively. Solar energy plays a smaller role, adding nearly 3% to the national grid, whereas biofuels account for a little over 1%.
Suggestions
To enhance the share of low-carbon electricity, the Philippines could look toward countries with successful clean energy programs for inspiration. The United Arab Emirates, for example, derives 20% of its electricity from nuclear energy, illustrating a robust approach to diversifying energy sources. Similarly, Greece, with 21% solar electricity, and Chile, with 22%, provide valuable lessons on maximizing solar potential. Considering the geographical similarities, the Philippines could also benefit from adopting wind energy approaches seen in coastal nations like Portugal and Spain, where wind contributes 25% and 22% of electricity generation, respectively. Building on these insights, investments in nuclear, wind, and solar energy could significantly shift the Philippines towards a cleaner and more sustainable electricity grid.
History
Historically, the Philippines has experienced various shifts in its low-carbon electricity generation. In the late 1980s, there were modest increases in hydroelectric power, marked by positive developments in 1984 and 1988. However, the 1990s saw some fluctuations, with notable declines in hydroelectric generation, particularly in 1991 and 1997. Concurrently, geothermal energy rose to prominence, especially in the late 1990s, providing consistent growth with substantial increases in 1998 and 1999. The early 2000s witnessed both expansion and challenges for geothermal production. More recently, the 2010s saw the emergence of solar power, with noticeable increments in 2016 and 2024, reflecting a growing commitment to diversifying clean energy sources. These historical trends suggest a strong potential for continued growth in low-carbon electricity in the Philippines.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.