Northern Samar is exploring a deal with Berde Renewables Inc. to address its long-standing power woes, particularly in far-flung island communities. The plan calls for installing stand-alone solar systems tailored to local demand, offering a cleaner and more reliable energy source for households long left in the dark.
The Northern Samar Electric Cooperative (Norsamelco) has thrown its support behind the proposed partnership, viewing the solar initiative as a practical step toward easing the province’s chronic power shortages and ensuring more stable electricity for its consumers.
The provincial government admitted that “for years, Northern Samar has grappled with persistent electricity concerns, particularly in its island municipalities, where power supply remains unstable.” It added that officials are now pursuing partnerships with renewable energy (RE) developers to establish microgrids in these areas as part of a potential public-private initiative.
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Securing a stable supply
To keep off-grid communities powered, the provincial government shoulders a subsidy of ₱20 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) on electricity costs, a stopgap it hopes to ease through renewable projects.
Governor Harris Ongchuan has opened talks with Berde Renewables president Patrick Zhu on a venture that would see the firm take charge of power generation, distribution, and system upkeep, while the province commits to easing regulatory processes and taking responsibility for purchasing the electricity produced.
Norsamelco backed the plan, saying it is ready to step in with additional supply if solar output dips during heavy rains. The provincial government, for its part, said the partnership “reflects the unwavering commitment…in providing sustainable and inclusive development for the people of Northern Samar,” adding that clean energy projects mark a bold step toward energy security, lower costs, and alignment with the national green agenda.
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More renewable projects
Northern Samar is ramping up efforts to host multiple RE ventures, positioning them as both power sources and drivers of local employment and revenue. Backed by the World Bank, the program seeks to simplify entry for investors while guaranteeing that surrounding communities share in the benefits.
Jhon Allen Berbon, who heads the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office, noted, “Based on the records from the Board of Investments and the Department of Energy (DOE), Northern Samar is one of the recommended sites for renewable energy projects, particularly wind farms.” He highlighted that the World Bank has committed to shoulder the full cost, sparing the provincial government from any financial burden.
Six renewable projects are lined up for Northern Samar, ranging from solar and hydro to ocean and wind power. Among them are Ranyag Energy’s solar farm, EBTech’s hydro plant, Energies PH’s ocean project, and three wind ventures led by Envision Energy, Lihangin, and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners.
Sources:
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1254597
https://powerphilippines.com/northern-samar-eyes-solar-partnership-with-berde-renewables-to-improve-power-access/
https://business.inquirer.net/504473/world-bank-ties-up-with-northern-samar-to-boost-renewable-energy-bids