Why is the Philippines betting on battery energy storage systems?

The Philippines is betting on battery energy storage systems (BESS) to achieve its ambitious renewable energy (RE) targets and build a more sustainable energy future.

What is the future of energy storage in the Philippines?

Under the Philippine energy scenario, peak demand is seen growing by 5.3 percent annually until 2028. Energy storage is stepping into the spotlight of the country’s green transition, with more companies making bold investments to unlock its game-changing potential.

What is the Philippines' first solar-plus-storage hybrid?

The Philippines’ first large-scale solar-plus-storage hybrid (pictured), was commissioned in early 2022. Image: ACEN. The Philippines Department of Energy (DOE) has outlined new draft market rules and policies for energy storage, a month after the country allowed 100% foreign ownership of renewable energy assets.

How much battery storage capacity will the Philippines have?

As the Philippines gears up for the entry of more renewables into the grid, the government anticipates close to 2,000 MW of battery storage capacity to complement them. According to DOE data as of end-March, ESS projects with a combined capacity of 594 MW are committed to come online over the next three years.

What are energy storage systems?

It said the definition of energy storage systems, or ESS, will be facilities capable of absorbing energy generated from a renewable energy source or generation facility connected to the grid, and injecting stored energy when needed.

How many Bess projects are there in the Philippines?

DOE data reveals 1,850 MW of committed BESS projects by 2030 and 1,951 MW of indicative projects by 2033, as of November 2024. The agency projects 330 MW of BESS capacity coming online this year alone. “We have seen that battery electricity storage is a crucial technology for the Philippines,” the DOE said.