Philippines Needs All Energy Types for Security, Says Prime Infra CEO

Guillaume Lucci, CEO of Filipino infrastructure firm Prime Infra, has stated that the Philippines requires a comprehensive energy strategy encompassing "power of all sorts" to address its ongoing energy emergency and build energy security. Lucci emphasized that the nation needs more than just renewable energy sources, advocating for a pragmatic "all-of-the-above" approach that includes a diverse mix of energy assets to ensure reliability and affordability, even as the country pursues decarbonization goals. This perspective contrasts with some of the more singular energy transition narratives prevalent in Western countries.

The urgency for such a strategy was highlighted by the impact of the U.S.-Iran war in February, which disrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz. The Philippines, heavily reliant on oil imports from the Gulf, with 98% of its supply originating from the region, experienced significant vulnerability. This crisis led President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare a nationwide energy emergency on March 24, which is slated to remain in effect for one year. During a critical point in the Iran crisis, the Philippines had a buffer supply of oil lasting only 45 days, underscoring its precarious energy import situation.

Lucci explained that reliability, affordability, and decarbonization cannot be treated as sequential goals but must be pursued concurrently, especially for a vulnerable emerging economy like the Philippines. He pointed out that the long lead times required for building green infrastructure necessitate the use of stop-gap measures and existing energy sources during the transition period. Prime Infra's extensive portfolio in the Philippines serves as a practical demonstration of this diversified approach. The company's assets include the Malampaya gas field, the Wawa hydropower dam, and a developing waste-to-energy business, all contributing to the goal of resource security.

Lucci further elaborated on the complexities of infrastructure development, noting that the construction of projects like the Wawa dam, which took place between 2021 and 2025 and began operations late last year, illustrates the significant time investment required. He highlighted that infrastructure development has evolved dramatically over the past 50 years, but the inherent complexity of these projects means they require substantial time to be built and to mature. This underscores the need for immediate, multifaceted energy solutions to maintain stability while long-term renewable projects are scaled up.