REalTalk is organized in partnership with AktivAsia Philippines, a non-profit organization that supports organizers and activists in Asia to win energy campaigns. The training focuses on raising awareness and increasing participation in  GEOP,  as a pathway for private and public entities to switch to a more affordable, accessible, and reliable power in renewable energy without capital costs. 

“GEOP allows eligible entities to switch from being a captive market of a distribution utility to sourcing power directly from a renewable energy supplier,” said Ian Soqueño, the RE Energize PH Campaign Lead of the Climate Reality Project Philippines, explaining that the captive market is mostly supplied with energy generated mostly from fossil fuels, such as coal and fossil gas. 

As a mechanism created through the Renewable Energy Act, GEOP is instrumental in achieving the government’s target of  increasing the share of renewable energy in the country’s power generation mix to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040; thereby, lowering electricity rates and decreasing carbon emissions. 

In May this year, Climate Reality Philippines capped off its REalTalk Luzon Leg in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan mobilizing 29 GEOP campaigners. The upcoming Visayas Leg will bring together participants from the academe, civil society, business community, and local government, with the view of accelerating GEOP implementation within the region. 

REalTalk tackles key energy issues and topics and builds the capacity of participants on leadership and campaign tools and elements. A deep dive session on GEOP is included to convey the truth and benefits of switching to renewable energy. 

The REalTalk Mindanao Leg is slated for September this year in Cagayan de Oro City.