Philippines Sees Record Solar Power Growth in 2025 as Government Pushes Renewable Energy Transition

The Philippines has achieved a major milestone in solar energy adoption this year, with over 1.2 gigawatts (GW) of new photovoltaic (PV) capacity installed in the first half of 2025 alone. This surge in solar deployment puts the country on track to exceed its renewable energy targets, driven by favorable government policies and increasing private sector investment.

According to the latest data from the Department of Energy (DOE), the Philippines' total installed solar capacity has now surpassed 4.5 GW, a significant jump from just 1.5 GW in 2020. The growth is attributed to streamlined permitting processes, tax incentives for clean energy projects, and the removal of foreign ownership restrictions in large-scale renewable developments.

Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla announced that solar power now accounts for nearly 8% of the country's total energy mix, up from 3% in 2022. "We are committed to accelerating our renewable energy transition to ensure energy security and reduce electricity costs for consumers," Lotilla said. The DOE aims to reach 15 GW of solar capacity by 2030 as part of the National Renewable Energy Program.

Major projects contributing to this expansion include the 450-MW Nueva Ecija Solar Farm, the largest in the country, and several floating solar installations on Laguna Lake. Rooftop solar adoption has also surged, with commercial and industrial sectors leading the way due to net metering incentives.

Analysts predict the Philippines will remain one of Southeast Asia's fastest-growing solar markets, with projections of another 2 GW of PV installations by 2026. As the country phases out coal-fired plants, solar energy is expected to play a central role in achieving its 35% renewable energy target by 2030.