The Center for Energy Research and Policy (CERP) was launched on Wednesday as a new think tank that aims to craft policy recommendations for the country’s energy sector.

The CERP is spearheaded by lawyer Noel Baga, who worked as executive assistant at the Department of Energy (DOE) until this year.

At the launching in Quezon City, Baga presented the CERP’s policy recommendations to help in achieving the government’s goal of energy security.

For energy sufficiency, the CERP backed the Marcos administration’s push to develop indigenous energy resources while attracting investments in infrastructure and technology.

To ensure reliable energy sources and minimize power interruptions, the think tank highlighted the need to diversify energy sources, upgrade to grid infrastructure, promote competition in the sector, enforce stringent regulations on power generation, and revise the Philippine Grid Code to improve grid management and operations.

The CERP also proposed to reduce reliance on imports by expanding renewable energy capacity and fortifying energy infrastructure that can withstand natural disasters and geopolitical tensions.

According to the CERP, increasing competition, implementing targeted subsidies, and rationalizing taxation will make electricity prices affordable.

To ensure electrification across the country, the CERP said it is pushing for the rapid enactment of legislation to extend electricity access to underserved communities.

Lastly, gradual transition to cleaner forms of energy, implementing energy efficiency measures, and aligning policies with climate change mitigation goals will address the escalating carbon emissions. (PNA)