The government has introduced new measures to expedite the nationwide rollout of its net-metering program by removing administrative bottlenecks and expanding financial benefits for renewable energy users.
Under a Joint Memorandum Circular signed by the Department of Energy, the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Department of Public Works and Highways, local government units are now mandated to follow strict processing timelines.
Local authorities should issue electrical permits within three working days and certificates of final electrical inspection within seven working days. If an official fails to act within these periods, the application is automatically deemed approved.
Established under the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, net-metering allows consumers to install renewable energy systems like rooftop solar and export surplus electricity to the grid in exchange for bill credits.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the coordinated effort with other agencies makes the process faster and more accessible for both households and businesses.
The Energy Regulatory Commission has also simplified the utility-side process by standardizing documentary requirements.
Applicants are now required to submit only a basic application form, an inspection certificate, a net-metering agreement and the applicable fee.
To further reduce the burden on consumers, notarization of agreements is no longer mandatory and electronic signatures are now accepted.
A supplemental Department of Energy policy issued in October 2025 introduced new financial incentives, including a “multi-site” or “aggregate” net-metering feature.
This allows consumers to share electricity credits across multiple accounts within the same utility franchise area. Qualified users now retain ownership of renewable energy certificates for the power they consume, which can be sold or traded in the renewable energy market.
As of December 2025, the program recorded its highest adoption in the Luzon grid with 17,141 qualified end-users.
The Visayas and Mindanao grids followed with 3,179 and 904 users, respectively. While specific fees vary by location, some initial application costs have been lowered toward the P2,500 range in certain jurisdictions to encourage participation.
