Net metering seen to boost renewables

Investments in renewable energy have received a boost thanks to a scheme that allows customers equipped with solar, wind, or biomass power systems to offset their electricity purchases from their local power utility and receive credits for the excess electricity exported to the grid.

In a press statement, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said the net metering scheme has paved the way for investments in renewable energy  through distribution utility customers.

The Department of Energy is accelerating efforts to provide consumers with more sustainable energy choices by organizing, through its Consumer Welfare and Promotion Office, an orientation program about the net metering program of the Manila Electric Co.

Meralco’s program manager for renewable energy Anna Maria Reodica said the first net metering customer in the country, with a 5-kilowatt rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) cell system, was “energized” by Meralco in November 2013.

Since then, net metering applications have been growing at an exponential rate, expanding from rooftop installations in households to commercial and industrial establishments, such as malls.

Cusi advised customers to exercise caution by informing their distribution utility of any Solar PV or renewable energy installations to ensure safety to both parties and preserve the stability of the grid where they are connected.