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Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste is facing renewed public attention over solar power projects linked to companies he founded.

In an interview with Pinky Webb on Bilyonaryo News Channel’s On Point, Leviste said he has no day-to-day involvement in his solar businesses after selling control of SP New Energy Corporation (SPNEC) to Meralco in 2023. During the same interview, he confirmed that he continues to fully own Solar Philippines, the parent company behind several solar energy projects.

The interview aired amid reports that the Department of Energy imposed administrative penalties amounting to as much as ₱24 billion on Solar Philippines for failure to comply with project timelines and other obligations under existing permits and service contracts. These penalties relate to delayed or non-operational power projects, often referred to in energy policy discussions as “zombie projects,” a term used to describe developments that have secured approvals but have not delivered power to the grid within the required period.

The issue was further discussed in a recent Facts First vlog by political journalist and educator Christian Esguerra titled “Malusutan kaya ni Cong. Leandro Leviste ang DOE?” In the episode, Esguerra spoke with Energy Secretary Sharon Garin about the potential impact of delayed or canceled renewable energy projects on electricity planning and supply, and how these regulatory actions could affect ordinary consumers. The discussion focused on policy enforcement and sector-wide implications rather than any criminal determination.

Public reaction has also surfaced online following the DOE action. Some netizens have circulated comparisons to previous infrastructure-related controversies, including comments such as: “Kung si Zaldy Co daw ay Flood Control King, si Leviste naman daw ay Kuryente King.”

Separately, Leviste has filed a civil libel complaint seeking a total of ₱111 million in damages against Malacañang Press Officer Claire Castro, accusing her of spreading false information about his businesses. Accompanied by his legal counsel, Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, Leviste filed the case at the Regional Trial Court in Balayan, Batangas, where he serves as the representative of the first district.

At present, these developments continue to raise questions about regulatory oversight, the status of approved renewable energy projects, and how potential conflicts are addressed when business interests intersect with public office.