THE Department of Energy (DoE) said it can start accepting applications for renewable energy (RE) contracts through the Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS) System next week, following the lifting of a five-month suspension.
Starting Nov. 25, RE developers will find a way to submit their official letters of intent and applications for RE contracts through EVOSS, the DoE said in an announcement on Tuesday.
“This resumption marks a big step in advancing the country’s renewable energy goals, facilitating more efficient project approvals while ensuring that future developments align with the updated regulatory framework,” Energy Undersecretary Rowena Cristina L. Guevara said.
Ms. Guevara is hoping for “greater investment and development within the renewable energy sector” following the improvements, contributing to the goal of accelerating the share of RE in the facility generation mix.
The processing of RE applications via the EVOSS System was suspended on June 25 to permit the DoE to tweak the appliance process, to bring it in keeping with the revised omnibus guidelines governing RE contracts issued on June 10.
The DoE has also modified the choice for developers to acquire a certificate of authority (CoA) before signing a renewable energy contract. This enables developers to begin permit processing, conduct surveys and pre-feasibility activities before the official 25-year contract term begins.
“With the inclusion of CoA within the EVOSS application process and a cleaner list of registered renewable energy project developers, we will now monitor projects more effectively,” Ms. Guevara said.
“This can foster a more dynamic and competitive environment, driving innovation and efficiency, while ensuring that the energy transition is led by committed and capable developers,” she added. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera
