The Philippines is expected to see a significant increase in the adoption of rooftop solar technology as the country prepares for a potential 'Super' El Niño.
Renewable energy experts warn that the climate phenomenon will lead to higher energy demand, but also present an opportunity for Filipinos to switch to solar energy to meet that demand.
The likelihood of a strong El Niño from August to October stands at 69%, and there is a 62% chance of it intensifying further in the latter part of the year, according to the weather bureau.
An El Niño happens when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific reach 1.5°C above normal, while a Super El Niño occurs when temperatures rise by 2°C or more above average.
Experts warn that too much heat could affect the performance of solar panels, emphasizing the need for proper installation and maintenance.
Philippine Solar and Storage Energy Alliance President Jose Rafel Mendoza noted that heat degrades solar panel performance, and improper installation can lead to less efficient performance.
According to a survey, 85% of Filipinos see rooftop solar as a necessity rather than a luxury, but 93% of respondents urge the government to provide a more affordable solar panel setup.
Removing the Value-Added Tax (VAT) on specific solar components could lower the cost of installation, according to experts.
A 12% discount on upfront costs would make solar energy more accessible to Filipinos, said ICSC Energy Transition Advisor Alberto Dalusung III.
The Philippines is currently the world's biggest spender on solar panels, and distributed rooftop solar capacity is expected to nearly triple to 3,500 megawatts within two years, according to energy analysts.
