Also included in the relaxed rules are those using the renewable alternative for medical facilities and solar systems.
Last August 20, the Department of Energy announced that it has relaxed rules regarding “own-use solar systems,” with the aim of expanding access to clean energy and helping consumers reduce electricity purchased from the grid.
Through Department Circular No. DC2026-08-0017, the DOE directed the streamlining requirements for Self-Generating Facility Zero-Export Solar Systems (SGF ZESS) and Micro-Solar Systems (MSS) and now allows consumers to generate electricity for their own use without exporting excess power to the distribution grid.
The MSS covers smaller, consumer-grade plug-and-play solar systems of up to one kilowatt designed for direct connection to a consumer’s electrical system, subject to applicable technical and safety requirements.
They are no longer required to secure a Building Permit or a Certificate of Compliance (COC) from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). Instead, they will need to comply with the notification process with their distribution utility (DU).
Meanwhile, the “SGF ZESS covers solar photovoltaic systems connected to a household or facility’s electrical system and equipped with safeguards that prevent excess electricity from being exported to the distribution grid,” explained the DOE.
For those using qualified systems installed in homes, clinics, and hospitals, the COC requirement has been waived and the Building Permit no longer be required if the structure already has the applicable clearance for such installation.
For distribution utilities, they are also directed to remove unnecessary pre-installation clearances, technical permits, and inspection charges as conditions for connection.
“Existing analog meters may continue to be used during a 12-month transition period while scheduled metering upgrades are undertaken, allowing qualified consumers to begin using their solar systems without waiting for immediate meter replacement,” further stated the DOE.
The DUs must also maintain the transformer and service-drop capacity assigned to customers with these systems to ensure adequate grid support when solar generation is unavailable or insufficient.
The companies have also been told to submit quarterly reports to the DOE on the number and installed capacity of SGF ZESS and MSS installations to track their growth and support power system planning.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin shared, “For many consumers, the requirements involved in installing even a small solar system can discourage adoption. This policy addresses those barriers.”
“By simplifying the process and removing unnecessary costs and requirements, we are opening the door for more households, clinics, and small businesses to generate clean electricity for their own use and reduce their dependence on electricity from the grid,” she added.
The Circular was formulated following a public consultation held last June, with inputs from stakeholders.
Furthermore, it als supports the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in his 2026 State of the Nation Address to expand renewable energy adoption and make rooftop solar and battery storage more affordable and accessible to Filipino households.
