RP, UK ink agreement to boost energy cooperation

The Philippine and British governments signed yesterday a memorandum of understanding to boost cooperation in the energy sector.

Under the agreement, a joint inter-government committee will be established to facilitate joint projects, especially in the use of indigenous energy resources, the Department of Energy (DOE) said in a statement.

A specialized center, to serve as hub for energy technologies, will also be established.

Energy Secretary Vicente Perez said the tie-up with the British government would strengthen partnerships in renewable energy technologies, cleaner fossil fuel technologies and power sector management methods.

"Energy is the number one sector of the Philippine economy where engagement by British companies is already strong. This new framework for cooperation will go right across the spectrum – oil and gas, transmission infrastructure, clean coal technology and renewable (energy sources)," added British energy minister Brian Wilson, who signed the agreement on behalf of his government.

"We are very pleased to sign this MOU with the British government as we work hard to revitalize our energy sector. The UK energy industry is well advanced down the path of energy deregulation. We can learn from their experiences and probably tap their expertise and resources to make our own energy sector successful," Perez said.

According to Perez, the MOU signifies the strong confidence of the British government in the Arroyo administration.

The signing, led by Perez and UK Minister of Trade and Industry Brian Wilson, was held in Malacañang.

Perez said the MOU would pave the way for stronger collaboration between the two governments on the fields of renewable energy technologies, cleaner fossil fuel technologies and power sector management techniques. – Donnabelle Gatdula