Six buildings in Negros Occidental are set to be outfitted with solar photovoltaic systems under a ₱158.28-million power purchase agreement between the provincial government and WeGen Energy Philippines, Inc.
As stated in the contract, the energy company will install a combined 1,270.5 kilowatt-peak (kWp) of solar power across the provincial government buildings. The agreement was formalized on April 29 through a signing ceremony at the Negros Occidental Capitol, led by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and WeGen Vice President for Sales and Operations Orlando Alparce Jr.
Targeted locations
Soon, the following buildings will be solar-powered: the Negros First Cyber Centre in Bacolod City will host the largest system at 588.5 kWp, followed by the Provincial Capitol with 140.8 kWp. Also in Bacolod, the Food Terminal Market and Negros First Hostel will be fitted with 99 kWp and 68.2 kWp systems, respectively. In the south, the Lorenzo D. Zayco District Hospital in Kabankalan City is set for a 220 kWp installation. Meanwhile, the Valeriano Gatuslao District Hospital in Himamaylan City will receive a 154 kWp setup.
The solar panels are set to be installed within 90 days of the contract’s receipt, under a 25-year agreement. Once the term ends, full ownership of the systems will be turned over to the Negros Occidental provincial government at no extra charge.
The solarization initiative is expected to deliver major cost savings for the provincial government. With solar PV systems projected to meet at least 40% of its energy needs, the shift to renewable power could slash electricity expenses by around ₱9.6 million each year, amounting to over ₱400 million in savings across the contract period.
(Also read: Bohol Light’s 8MWac Solar Boost Attracts Investors)
Setting the standard
Through the rollout of rooftop solar installations across multiple government-run facilities, the Negros Occidental provincial government is translating its clean energy goals into concrete action. The initiative aligns with its SecuRE Negros roadmap, a long-term strategy aimed at advancing the province’s shift to renewable energy.
Following the Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee’s mandate under Resolution No. 8, series of 2023, the project ensures compliance by requiring government offices to obtain at least 20% of their energy from renewable sources. This reinforces the Department of Energy’s push for greener power across public agencies.
The solar PV project is set to generate significant environmental benefits over 25 years, cutting carbon emissions by 25,521 metric tons—equivalent to planting over 420,000 trees. It will also offset nearly 2.5 million gallons of diesel and eliminate the need for more than 28 million pounds of coal, underscoring its role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
(Also read: Northern Samar Rises as Green Energy Hub)
Previous solar initiative
As part of its renewable energy campaign, the provincial government of Negros Occidental handed over solar panels and water pumps to three partner organizations in July 2024.
Recipients included the GAID Mambugsay Integrated Social Forestry Project Minority Association, which received a 1HP surface pump and five 550-watt solar panels; the Negros Economic Development Foundation, awarded four 550-watt solar panels with inverter and accessories; and the University of St. La Salle Training Farm in Bacolod City, given a 3HP submersible pump and eight 550-watt solar panels.
A solar power system donated by Negros Island Solar Power, Inc. was also handed over to Ara-al Elementary School Nailab Extension via the Department of Education in La Carlota City.
These efforts underscore Negros Occidental’s ongoing commitment to advancing clean power solutions across the province, supporting sustainable development, and empowering local communities through cleaner, more efficient power sources.
Sources:
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1249060
https://www.panaynews.net/negocc-govt-wegen-sign-p158-m-power-purchase-pact/