THE Department of Energy (DOE) on Tuesday said it has signed partnership agreements with Iloilo and Bacolod to use solar power complemented by energy efficiency (EE) systems in public buildings in the two provinces.
Solar power uses photovoltaic (PV) systems that convert sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductor materials, typically arranged in panels. These systems generate direct current (DC) electricity, which is then converted into usable alternating current (AC) by an inverter.
The partnership is part of the Solar Solutions for Government: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in Public Buildings (SSG–ERPB) initiative. Under the agreement, the DOE will provide technical assistance on the deployment of solar PV systems and energy-efficient equipment suited to the operational needs of the local government units (LGUs) of Iloilo and Bacolod.
The DOE will likewise conduct capacity-building activities such as orientation and training sessions for local officials and technical personnel to support sound planning, implementation, and monitoring of the solar PV systems.
“More than a technical undertaking, energy efficiency and clean energy adoption in public buildings is good governance. Through these agreements, we are demonstrating practical, measurable pathways for government facilities to cut electricity use, strengthen resiliency, and become models for responsible energy use,“ Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said in a statement.
10 other LGUs
To date, the respective LGUs of Manila, Quezon City, Pasay, Pasig, Mandaluyong, Navotas, San Juan, Taguig, Valenzuela, and Siquijor have also signed agreements under the SSG–ERPB program.
Likewise, the DOE has partnered with the Department of Health to advance energy efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in government hospitals.
The SSG–ERPB is designed to build a pipeline of public-sector projects to achieve measurable energy savings, improve facility resiliency, and encourage wider adoption of renewable energy and energy-efficiency practices across government agencies.
“Local governments are critical champions of the clean energy transition because they are closest to communities and public services. When LGUs lead through policy, investment, and implementation, clean energy becomes real, visible, and beneficial to ordinary Filipinos,” Garin said.