Energy regulators across Southeast Asia moved closer to integrated energy systems as member states reaffirmed strong support for deeper collaboration during the 17th ASEAN Energy Regulators Network (AERN) Meeting.
Energy Regulatory Commission Chairperson and CEO Atty. Francis Saturnino Juan, AERN chair for 2026–2027, said mounting pressures such as fuel market volatility, supply disruptions, and geopolitical shifts continue to strain energy systems across the region.
“Behind that declaration are industries that cannot afford to slow down, and households that cannot afford to wait.”
“In the Philippines, we have just declared a state of national energy emergency — and behind that declaration are industries that cannot afford to slow down, and households that cannot afford to wait,” Juan explained.
The ERC chief emphasized that these challenges are shared across ASEAN, requiring coordinated and collective action among member states.
The meeting, aligned with ASEAN’s theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” highlighted both the urgency of current challenges and the commitment of member states to sustain cooperation under AERN.
Juan stressed that the region is not only managing risks but also navigating a transformation driven by renewable energy expansion, evolving technologies, and increasingly interconnected grids.
“Interconnection is as much about rules as it is about wires,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Juan outlined three priorities: regulatory coherence, operationalizing regional integration, and strengthening regulatory capacity amid rapid sector changes.
“Our focus now shifts from planning to delivery.”
“The ASEAN Power Grid is no longer a long-term aspiration. It is an active workstream. Our focus now shifts from planning to delivery,” he said.
As AERN chair for 2026–2027, Juan reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to advancing regulatory harmonization and regional cooperation, noting the strong backing of ASEAN member states in strengthening collaboration.
“The credibility of this work will not be measured by what we say. It will be measured by what we deliver,” he concluded.
