Focus on the energy transition

THE coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic has brought out the sobering reality that the world is not as advanced and as resilient as we thought it to be. We have realized that our societies and economic systems are fragile and that we are only as strong as our most vulnerable. The only way to survive and move forward is to heed the science and make decisive actions toward staging a recovery that will pave the way for a cleaner, safer and more resilient world.

It has been said many times that as a developing nation, the Philippines needs energy to build the foundations of growth. I subscribe to a healthy energy mix but not the misguided axiom that our country should develop and acquire what it needs at all costs. The issue is not just about the security of energy supply. It is not just about reliability or affordability. It is about increasing clean energy and using it wisely and efficiently. Energy security that assails the safety of our people and the environment can never guarantee inclusive development.