Photo courtesy of CSUCC Energy and Power Research and Innovation Center
The Foundation for a Sustainable Society, Inc. (FSSI) took part in the 7th Renewable Energy Congress (RE Congress) held on December 12 to13, 2024, in Makati City. The event focused on accelerating renewable energy deployment in the Philippines, aiming to achieve a 50% renewable energy share in the power generation mix by 2030.
The congress opened with remarks from Marie Schroeter, Country Director of Friedrich Ebert-Stiftung Philippines, followed by an introduction by Charlie Ayco, President of the Center for Empowerment, Innovation, and Training on Renewable Energy (The CENTRE). The two organizations co-led the event.
It also featured a keynote speech from Senator Risa Hontiveros, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and sustainable energy policies. Athena Denise Galao, OIC Country Programme Coordinator for UN Women, also spoke about renewable energy’s role in advancing gender equality.The first plenary panel, “Re-calibrating Targets, Policies, and Actions Towards Inclusive & Sustainable Renewable Energy,” featured a discussion moderated by Dr. Nelson Enano, Jr., Coordinator of the Mindanao Renewable Energy Center.
FSSI Executive Director Sixto Donato C. Macasaet, along with Project Officers Carmela Porras and Sherwin Celestino, also engaged in consultation sessions during the congress. The session provided a platform for participants to engage directly with FSSI and explore collaborative opportunities.
The second plenary panel, “From Vision to Action: Local RE Policies and Plans for Inclusive, Resilient, and Sustainable Energy and Climate Measures,” was moderated by Maris Cardenas, Executive Director of CentRE. Participants also took part in workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions on topics such as sustainable RE project development, solar photovoltaic (PV) installation, energy efficiency, and the progress of the Just Energy Transition Roadmap.
The second day focused on charting a framework for a just energy transition. Sessions covered investing in women as partners in renewable energy efforts, circular strategies for sustainable renewable energy, and the role of workers in transforming the transport and energy sectors. The “Green Pitch” segment showcased innovative green energy initiatives. Mr. Macasaet also participated as a panelist.
The event concluded with a solidarity message from Lloyd Cameron, Economic and Climate Counsellor of the British Embassy in Manila, and closing remarks by Sixto Donato C. Macasaet, FSSI Executive Director and Vice President of CENTRE.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Macasaet emphasized the urgency of advancing renewable energy efforts in the Philippines. He stated, “Kailangan nating isulong at palakasin ang pagkilos sa renewable energy—at hindi lang iyon, para sa just energy transition, para sa mas malinis at affordable energy [at] social justice.”
[We need to advance and strengthen efforts in renewable energy—and not just that, for a just energy transition, for cleaner and affordable energy [and] social justice.]
FSSI’s participation reinforced its commitment to promoting renewable energy and advocating for just energy transitions that align with social justice and sustainable development goals.
FSSI offers financing and capacity building for social enterprises to support renewable energy projects. Know more through https://fssi.com.ph/products-and-services/.
