Ilocos Norte capitol building is being equipped with solar panels. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
Local governments in the Philippines are promoting green energy and sustainable development. The Iloilo City government has tapped solar power to meet at least one-third of its around 200 KW daily demand.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas on Jan. 15 said that the adoption of solar power could reduce the city government’s expenses on electricity.
The local government also plans to apply for the net metering program with the More Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) for the excess supply, especially on Saturdays and Sundays.
The installation of the 134 solar panels was completed and will begin operations within this week. The city government stands to save around PHP96,000 every month, not to mention the benefits of the net metering program.
The mayor said solar power will be also installed at the legislative building upon completion of the project. The city government’s two dialysis centers and the Esplanade currently are using solar energy. He said more public schools will be adopting the use of solar power.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas. (Photo: Jerry Treñas Facebook)
Leading the way towards a green and sustainable province, the rooftop of the Ilocos Norte capitol building is also being equipped with solar panels to reduce electricity costs in the long run.
With funding of around PHP45 million from the National Electrification Administration (NEA), Cipriano Martinez, the general manager of Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative (INEC), said that the installation of solar panels at the capitol started last December and is expected to be completed soon.
Once completed, the solar power project will have a capacity of 470 KW at its peak of operation and is predicted to reduce cost of electricity in the province by 40% since the power generated by the solar panels will be sold to INEC to increase its supply.
“The installation of solar panels is happening now as we continue to work towards affordable and stable electricity to our member consumer owners,” said Martinez.
