With no known rate yet for a local feed-in tariff (FIT), Scottish RE experts have recently stressed the need for the urgency for the Philippine government to set up firmer protocol and guidelines on promoting RE investors into the country. In comparison to Scotland, which is also a country with a high access on many RE ventures (mainly also because of the topography and geographical location in the globe); the defining point on setting up RE business is mainly having a firm, viable and long-term plan and goal.
As stated by the Scottish Development International business representative for RE, Paul O’Brien, the Philippine government may want to make a stronger push on developing RE investments. As an example, O’Brien stated three key factors of Scotland’s long term plan on having a 100% RE consumption by the year 2020.
The first of the three factors involves tapping into the private sector for RE technology. By providing resources (ready buildings and equipment) for these investors, RE research and development can be boosted up. Second, capital grants are to be set-up for these private firms, to sustain future projects and the like.
The third and probably the most important key factor was setting up incentives for these private firms. This is where FITs are put into play, a guaranteed move for private firms to stay in the business for the long run.
The DOE has given no set amount for FIT. It has been reported, though, that the rates will be finalized within the year.
