The Department of Energy (DOE) expressed support on Thursday, April 30, for proposals requiring government buildings to install and use renewable energy systems, backing legislative efforts to speed up the country’s clean energy transition.

During a hearing of the Senate Committee on Energy, the DOE said it supports measures that would mandate renewable energy (RE) adoption in government offices, particularly through solar rooftop installations and similar systems.

The agency proposed allowing government offices to enter into multi-year contracts for renewable energy projects, noting that most arrangements function under build-operate-transfer-style schemes that require long-term commitments.

It also suggested allowing energy cost savings generated from reduced electricity consumption to be used as payment for project contractors, which it said could help accelerate implementation across agencies.

The DOE added that it can provide technical assistance to government offices under existing energy efficiency frameworks, including provisions of Republic Act 11285 or the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act.

On proposed net metering reforms, the DOE expressed support but stressed that the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) should be responsible for setting pricing methodology and technical limitations to ensure proper implementation of the system.

Lawmakers, led by Sen. Pia Cayetano, are pushing measures to amend the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 and expand renewable energy adoption amid rising electricity costs that continue to strain households.

The committee also discussed broader energy reforms aimed at reducing power prices and improving access to clean energy, including proposals to diversify renewable sources in the long term.