Philippines can ditch coal, gas for renewables by 2050 — analysis

MANILA, Philippines — It is “entirely feasible” for the Philippines to end its reliance on coal and gas in favor of renewable energy sources by 2050, which can reduce electricity costs and create around one million jobs, an analysis suggested. 

According to a report by Berlin-based global science policy institute Climate Analytics released Wednesday, the Philippines should end its coal habit by 2035, and almost entirely phase out gas-fired generation by 2040 to attain a 1.5 Celsius compatible emissions pathway.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a United Nations-backed body of scientists, says that greenhouse gas emissions must peak before 2025 and reach net zero in the early 2050s to limit global warming to 1.5 Celsius with no or limited overshoot. Achieving this target requires an accelerated global energy transition.

The power generation in the Philippines heavily relies on fossil fuels, with the country generating 60% of its electricity from coal, a significant contributor to carbon dioxide emissions. The share of coal increased significantly from 45% in 2015.

The Philippines in 2020 declared a moratorium on proposals to build new coal-fired plants.

Meanwhile, the share of gas dropped to 16% in 2022 from 23% in 2015. However, the Philippine Energy Plan indicates that the share of gas in power generation is set to increase to 27 to 40% by 2040 through gas imports.

The report stressed the need for a well-defined plan for an expedited coal phase-out and renewable energy expansion to 99% coverage by 2050. 

“Such a transition is not only essential for the country's commitment to meeting international emissions reduction targets under the Paris Agreement but also for ensuring energy security, affordability, and environmental well-being,” the Climate Analytics report read. 

According to the analysis, the country’s potential for renewables was estimated at around 1,200 gigawatts, including solar rooftop, open-field solar, and onshore and offshore wind. This potential is deemed enough to replace coal and gas, and meet future energy demands. 

Climate Analytics suggested that an additional 152 terawatt-hours will be required by 2050 to meet future