A tripartite collaborative approach has been reached by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), power utility giant Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and the city government of Pasig to promote the use of renewable energy (RE) in the host-locality. In a statement to the media, the ERC said that an agreement for the promotion of RE-anchored solutions in Pasig City was signed on Thursday, July 6. The agreement covers net metering program and distributed energy resources (DER) solutions. “Under this agreement, the ERC, the city government of Pasig, and Meralco will collaborate on opportunities that will encourage the use of renewable energy in the locality,” the regulatory body qualified. Both the net metering program and DER, according to the ERC, “can help manage electricity costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and generate economic development.” ERC Chairperson Monalisa C. Dimalanta noted they share the vision of Pasigueños on embracing green energy solutions, and through the signed covenant the city residents can “avail (the specified) government programs and enjoy the benefits,” adding that “we can empower our consumers by making these programs more accessible.” Via the specified programs, end-users that may include households, commercial establishments or industrial facilities could turn into "prosumers" – and that is achieved by having their own solar photovoltaic (PV) installations in their rooftops or properties that will then supply their electricity needs; and any surplus could be injected into the grid. “The parties agreed to work together to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy technologies, to empower consumers, and to promote cost-efficient demand management,” the ERC emphasized. The regulatory body stated the deal will also delve with “development of information, education, and communication materials relevant to the implementation of renewable energy programs such as net-metering and DER.” To accelerate the realization of this initiative, the ERC indicated that it will “deploy resource personnel at the City Hall, in order to closely assist Pasigueños with their concerns.” As stipulated by the industry regulator, “these personnel will handle the processing of certificates of compliance (COC) applications for net-metering, DERs, and self-generating facilities.” There would also be streamlining of document-submissions; as well as facilitation on the processes for installation, payment and permitting. “The ERC, along with the city government and Meralco, will also conduct an information, education, and communications campaign for electricity consumers and solar/renewable energy installers,” the agency assured.