DOE Amends National Hydrogen Policy Framework to Advance Hydrogen Energy Development

On July 08, 2026, the Department of Energy (DOE) issued Department Circular No. DC2026-07-0016, amending the National Policy and General Framework, Roadmap, and Guidelines for Hydrogen in the Energy Sector. The Circular updates the 2024 guidelines to support the phased adoption of hydrogen energy in the Philippines while maintaining the DOE’s regulatory oversight of the downstream hydrogen value chain, including manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution, and utilization for power and non-power applications.

A key feature of the amended framework is the strengthened role of the Hydrogen Energy Industry Committee (HEIC). The HEIC is tasked with overseeing the development of the hydrogen industry and formulating the National Strategic Roadmap for Hydrogen and its Derivatives. The Circular also revises the composition of the Technical Working Group (TWG), principally composing it of designated DOE personnel responsible for developing and updating implementing guidelines covering technical standards, safety and environmental standards, research and development, applications and utilization, demonstration projects, and capacity building. Representatives from relevant government agencies, industry, academe, research institutions, professional associations, and other stakeholders may also be invited as resource persons, technical advisers, or members of sub-working groups.