The Negros Occidental provincial government plans to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with a total capacity of 1,270 kilowatts (KW) across seven main facilities of the Capitol this year. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson highlighted that this shift to solar energy is expected to save the province between 132,080 and 158,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) monthly.
An energy audit conducted the previous year prompted the provincial government to begin utilizing solar panels this year. With Negros Occidental facing significant energy challenges such as daily power outages and rising electricity rates, the move aims to address these issues and encourage local government units to adopt grid-tied rooftop solar systems as well.
Since February, La Carlota City Hall in Negros Occidental has been using a 100-KW solar PV system as part of its shift toward renewable energy. Mayor Rex Jalando-on emphasized that this transition is aimed at promoting energy conservation, reducing costs, and protecting the environment.
Negros Occidental, a role model for renewable energy
Negros Occidental, a leading producer of solar energy in the Philippines, has the potential to serve as as an example of sustainable energy initiatives. The province is home to several solar power companies that operate plants. Here are some of them:
- Cadiz City solar farm
When it launched in 2016, the solar farm in Cadiz City was recognized as the largest in Southeast Asia and the seventh largest globally. The solar farm has an impressive capacity of 132.5 MW. At the time, its projected production capacity was 280 megawatts (MW), potentially enabling the local government to bring in annual revenues of P45 million. Covering 176 hectares, the project currently produces 188,500 (megawatt-hours) MWh of electricity, providing clean energy to power over 167,000 households and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 94,000 tons annually.
- Silay City solar power plant
This year, Negros Occidental saw the groundbreaking of a new solar power plant in Silay City. With a capacity of 69 MW, it is expected to generate 94 MW, combined with a previous power plant by the same firm, by the end of this year or early 2025. The project is expected to create jobs for 500 to 700 individuals in the region. The power plant will include a battery storage system to ensure a continuous supply of electricity both during the day and at night. Additionally, the facility has the capacity to provide power to 70,000 homes.
San Carlos Sun Power Inc. (SacaSun) represents AboitizPower’s inaugural solar power project, featuring a maximum output of 59 MW utility-scale solar photovoltaic facility located in San Carlos City. The facility, which cost Php3.8 billion, is AboitizPower’s 29th renewable energy installation. Currently, SacaSun contributes to the reduction of over 44,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions over 20 years, comparable to removing approximately 10,000 cars from the roads.
All about SecuRE Negros
Negros Occidental has taken a significant step to tackle climate and energy challenges with the launch of the SecuRE Negros campaign in February, led by Governor Lacson. This initiative emphasizes the critical role of renewable energy in securing the province’s energy future.
SecuRE Negros reflects Negros Occidental’s steadfast commitment to developing reliable energy systems while promoting availability, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendliness. The campaign aims to highlight the muti-faceted advantages of transitioning to distributed energy systems powered by renewable sources, thereby addressing the pressing energy and climate crises.
Renewable energy is recognized as technologically feasible, financially viable, and environmentally sustainable. It attracts investments, reduces long-term energy costs, and generates jobs, which collectively contribute to the province’s economic growth. Furthermore, this shift catalyzes innovation in related sectors, fostering economic diversification and resilience within the community.
Governor Lacson underscored the importance of government commitment and supportive policies, stating, “The road may be long, but it will be bright if we all work together to make our Province truly the Renewable Energy Capital of the Philippines.”
The SecuRE Negros campaign employs multi-stakeholder engagement strategies to ensure a just transition, emphasizing that the adoption of renewable energy empowers all stakeholders in the province. This initiative represents both an investment in future generations and a strong commitment to climate action, mitigating the impacts of the climate and energy crises.
To enhance public backing for renewable energy initiatives, the campaign advocates for a comprehensive societal approach, urging involvement from various stakeholders, including the general public, financial institutions, power producers, distribution utilities, and both national and local government agencies.
As Negros Occidental embarks on its journey toward renewable energy, the SecuRE Negros campaign aims to not only influence the future of the province but also serve as an example for other regions globally. This launch represents a dedication to eco-friendliness, resilience, and energy security, prioritizing these values in the province’s agenda.
Sources:
NegOcc to install 1,270-KW solar power systems in provincial buildings
https://aboitizpower.com/about-us/our-businesses/power-generation/cleanergy/san-carlos-sun-power-inc