What is Renewable Energy?
Renewable Energy (RE) refers to energy generated from resources that are naturally replenished on a human timescale. Unlike fossil fuels, these sources have no upper limit on the total quantity to be used, as their renewal rate is rapid enough to ensure availability over an indefinite period. Often termed “Green Energy,” RE sources are vital for sustainable development because they produce little to no greenhouse gases (GHG) or atmospheric pollutants.
In the Philippines, these resources are categorized under the acronym "BiGSHOW":
Biomass
Biomass refers to non-fossilized, biodegradable organic materials derived from plants, animals, and microorganisms. This includes agricultural crops, residues, and by-products. Energy is harnessed through thermochemical (combustion, gasification), biochemical (anaerobic digestion), or physicochemical processes to produce heat, steam, mechanical power, or electricity.
Geothermal
Geothermal energy taps into the heat stored beneath the Earth’s surface. This includes natural steam, hot water, and brines. The sustainability of geothermal plants is maintained through natural recharge (rainfall) and enhanced recharge, where water is re-injected into the ground to sustain steam production and pressure within the reservoir.
Solar
Solar energy is derived from solar radiation. It is captured using Photovoltaic (PV) cells to produce electricity directly or through Solar Thermal systems to generate heat. From household rooftop installations to utility-scale solar farms, it is one of the most versatile RE sources for both urban and rural electrification.
Hydro
Hydroelectric power utilizes the kinetic energy of falling or flowing water—from rivers, waterfalls, and irrigation canals—to rotate turbines. In the Philippine regulatory context, hydro plants are classified by their capacity:
Micro-hydro: 1 kW to 100 kW
Mini-hydro: 101 kW to 10 MW
Large Hydro: More than 10 MW
Ocean
Ocean energy systems convert the energy of ocean waves, tides, or thermal gradients into electricity. While still an emerging technology in the archipelago, several high-potential sites have been identified, including the San Bernardino Strait, Hinatuan Passage, and the waters around Batanes and Catanduanes.
Wind
Wind energy is harvested by converting the kinetic energy of moving air masses into mechanical or electrical power via wind turbines. Situated along the Asia-Pacific monsoon belt, the Philippines possesses significant wind potential, particularly along coastlines and high-altitude ridges. Notable installations include the iconic wind farms in Bangui and Burgos, Ilocos Norte.
Resources
References (APA 7th Edition)
Department of Energy. (n.d.). Renewable energy plans and programs.
International Renewable Energy Agency. (2022). Renewable energy statistics 2022.
Renewable Energy Act of 2008, Rep. Act No. 9513 (2008).
Twidell, J., & Weir, T. (2021). Renewable energy resources (4th ed.). Routledge.
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