The situation, in brief
Amid growing public interest in solar energy, the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) clarified that it is not opposed to the use of renewable or solar energy. In a statement, Meralco Vice President for Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga said, “Meralco recognizes the growing interest in…
Amid growing public interest in solar energy, the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) clarified that it is not opposed to the use of renewable or solar energy.
In a statement, Meralco Vice President for Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga said, “Meralco recognizes the growing interest in renewable energy and solar installations, and we fully understand why many customers see these as alternatives to lower electricity costs and contribute to a cleaner energy future.”
Zaldarriaga also said the company recognizes the “concerns and anxieties” raised by consumers regarding regulations on the use of solar energy.
“We want to address these with openness and understanding. Our intention has never been to discourage innovation or limit personal energy choices, but rather to emphasize the importance of safety and proper installation,” he added.
The statement came after Meralco Vice President and Head of Utility Economics Lawrence Fernandez called for a crackdown on “guerrilla” or unregistered solar panel installations that bypass local government permits and safety inspections.
Zaldarriaga reiterated that Meralco is pushing for clear government guidelines to ensure public safety.
“What Meralco is calling for is the establishment of clear, standardized guidelines by the appropriate governing agencies. These standards are meant to help ensure that solar installations are done correctly and safely, in line with practices already adopted in many other countries,” he said.
He added, “This is not a fiscal issue, nor an attempt to impose control, but a matter of public safety that may apply nationwide, even beyond the Meralco franchise area.”
The Meralco spokesperson also noted that the company has no regulatory authority over solar installations, but said that if installations are done without the utility’s knowledge, its ability to provide assistance becomes limited.
“Our request is simply for customers to inform their respective utility — whether Meralco or the distribution utility/electric cooperative in their area. This is not intended to discourage or limit their choices, but to help ensure safety, system compatibility, and shared awareness for everyone involved,” Zaldarriaga said.
He added that the issue is about “education, cooperation, and shared responsibility,” stressing that Meralco remains open to engaging with customers, easing public concerns, and working with government agencies to ensure that the transition to renewable energy remains safe and beneficial for everyone.
Meralco has been at the center of public discussion in recent days as consumers search for cheaper energy alternatives amid rising global energy and oil prices linked to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
