The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is studying a new policy that would regulate the manufacturing, distribution, and use of solar energy systems in the country as part of efforts to strengthen public safety and address concerns raised by electric utility firms.

During a public consultation on Tuesday, May 26, the DTI said it is seeking feedback from stakeholders on a draft department administrative order (DAO) that would require solar power systems to comply with the country’s safety and quality standards.

Under the draft DAO, solar energy components would be required to secure a Philippine Standards (PS) safety and quality certification mark before being allowed to enter the Philippine market.

The proposed regulation covers both local and foreign manufacturers of inverters, rapid shutdown devices, battery charge controllers, solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, PV cables, and battery energy storage systems (BESS).

The DTI said the PS certification mark would only be granted to companies found compliant with applicable Philippine National Standards (PNS) set by the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS).

In addition, the DTI plans to require importers of solar energy components to obtain an import commodity clearance (ICC) certification mark.

“This is to safeguard consumers, ensure product reliability, and promote the adoption of safe and efficient solar energy technologies in the country,” the DTI said.

The agency added that the stricter regulations aim to establish technical standards “to ensure the safe, reliable, and compliant installation and operation” of solar energy systems.

According to the DTI, the rapid growth in solar energy installations and usage nationwide makes it necessary to address risks associated with these products, including electrical fires caused by faulty wiring, structural damage, and explosions.

It noted that electric utility firms have also raised concerns that unregulated or improperly installed solar facilities may pose risks to public safety.

Earlier, Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) urged the government to establish technical standards for rooftop solar equipment to protect consumers and maintain the stability of the power distribution network.

The DTI said certifications for manufactured or imported solar energy components must be available at all times for government verification.

To ensure continued compliance, the agency said regular surveillance activities would be conducted in accordance with existing rules and regulations.

Under the draft DAO, manufacturers of solar energy components would be given one year from the effectivity of the order to comply with the proposed regulatory requirements.

The DTI said firms found violating the policy may face show-cause orders, cease and desist orders, and possible product recalls.

Through the BPS, the agency said stakeholders would be given 60 days to submit comments and recommendations on the proposed policy.