If there is one thing solar developers and installers can all agree on, it's the huge potential but small realisation of the residential rooftop segment in the Philippines. Even though the government is spear heading the one stop shop for all government applications and permits, there are still substantial requirements and signatures required for behind the meter, residential rooftop solar installations. That could all change thanks to mother nature and the foreseeable impact that El Nino will be having in the coming summer months. Peak energy demand tends to coincide in the middle of the day or from 6pm to 8pm, where air conditioning and HVAC usage gets used to cool down the extreme heat and humidity.

Even if it is mother nature who pushes for the direct and swift action of the ERC to drive residential rooftop solar, it is most welcome.

There are other means to alleviate grid pressure from the surge in peak demand for which the residential sector can play a role. Such solutions include Demand Side Management solutions as well as installing energy efficiency end loads, like thermal A/Cs and HVAC systems. Thermal HVACs use the sun's heat and ambient heat to maintain A/C coolant temperatures.