The Right Mix: The Philippines Achieving Its Renewable Energy Goals

Beginning of article

MANILA, Philippines - The global energy system is undergoing a transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. There are clear signs that the pace of change is accelerating. 2009 was the second year in a row that more money was invested worldwide in renewable electricity generation projects than in fossil fuel-powered plants, according to data published by the United Nations.

Developing countries, especially in Asia, are taking a lead role in this transition. The Philippines is one of the countries on track to be a leader in Asia's shift to clean energy, if it continues to pursue ambitious goals and makes the right policy choices.

Many people are under the impression that the transition to renewable energy is being led by developed countries, while developing countries follow. To the contrary, a recent working paper by the World Resources Institute (WRI), called "Grounding Green Power," found that developing countries are at the forefront of renewable energy policies.

Already, the majority of installed renewable …