Ogie Atadero

While there are constant challenges in transitioning to renewable energy. Possible solutions are continuously arising to ensure that our energy needs can be met and be sustainable. The Philippines have implemented policies to provide potential courses to shift for cleaner forms of energy. The Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), Established under the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (Republic Act No. 9513), is a policy initiative designed to empower electricity consumers by allowing them to choose renewable energy sources for their power supply. 

 

 

Co-organized with the Climate Reality Project-Philippines we have recently held a conference REalize for Businesses, Hotels, and Schools: Empowering Climate-Resilient Sectors with Renewable Energy to engage the tourism, information technology, and academic sectors to explore options to power their sectors with renewable energy and discuss potential benefits and challenges that these businesses can encounter. The conference promoted GEOP as a pathway for sectors to transition towards 100% renewable energy without capital costs. It provides entities the power of choice in choosing renewable energy over fossil fuels, enabling them to generate significant operational savings and improve their sustainability portfolio. The discussion highlighted the process of switching, the benefits, the eligible entities, and the next steps for the business to take as they commit to sustainable energy solutions.

By enabling consumer choice and expanding the market for renewable energy, the GEOP helps accelerate the shift toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system in the Philippines.

The discussions surrounding GEOP and decarbonization are intrinsically linked to the broader fight against climate change. As an organization, 350.org’s mission reflects this goal—350 parts per million (ppm) of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere represents the threshold for life to thrive on Earth in its fullest diversity. Unfortunately, we have already exceeded 400ppm, a stark reminder that the time for action is now.

But climate action is more than just about addressing a crisis; it’s about seizing opportunities. We must not only aim to share the burdens of addressing climate change but also ensure that the benefits of our efforts are widely distributed. The path to a decarbonized future offers economic opportunities, energy security, and sustainable development. The Renewable Energy Law, which made GEOP possible, is a critical step toward achieving this vision.

GEOP empowers consumers with the choice to source their electricity from renewable energy providers. This shift can accelerate the transition to cleaner energy sources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote energy independence. But the true power of GEOP lies in collaboration. With the support of policymakers, businesses, and consumers, we can scale renewable energy adoption, creating a ripple effect that transforms the entire energy landscape.

The pieces are in place. What we need now is the collective will to put them together. By doing so, we will build a future that is not only environmentally sustainable but also socially just—one that nurtures the well-being of all.

As we move forward, we continue to act with urgency, ambition, and creativity. We can create a future where sustainable development and economic prosperity go hand in hand.

 

Learn more about 350 Pilipinas’ Green Energy Option Program Campaign