Off-grid Palawan gets solar aid
Palawan, often referred to as the country’s “last frontier,” frequently experiences electricity interruptions due to its isolation from the national grid.
(FILES) With some of the most expensive power rates in Southeast Asia, the Philippines stands to benefit immensely from rooftop solar power installations in urban areas like Metro Manila. However, adoption is hampered by a lack of public awareness and the need for more government support.
The National Power Corp. Small Power Utilities Group (NPC-SPUG) is set to install three solar-powered Mobile Energy Systems (MES) in Palawan after the Department of Energy (DOE) formally turned over the units on Friday to improve the province’s energy resilience and cut reliance on imported fuel.
The units, delivered through the DOE’s partnership with the United States Agency for International Development under the Energy Secure Philippines Program, will be deployed to remote communities.
“These MES units represent not just a technological innovation, but a shared vision for energy security and resilience,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said during the ceremonial turnover held at the NPC Substation in Puerto Princesa.
Palawan, often referred to as the country’s “last frontier,” frequently experiences electricity interruptions due to its isolation from the national grid.
According to the DOE, the MES units will ensure the continued operation of critical infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and emergency communications in these vulnerable areas.
A 70-kWh MES unit is expected to yield annual fuel savings of nearly P480,000, while a 50-kWh unit could save over P389,000.
Estimated returns on investment range from 8.88 to 14.5 years, excluding broader benefits such as lower transmission losses and reduced exposure to fuel price volatility.
“Every peso saved from imported fuel is a peso reinvested into our communities. Every kilowatt-hour generated locally strengthens our energy independence.
The MES initiative supports our broader vision of reducing dependence on imported fuel while enhancing the energy security and economic resilience of remote, disaster-prone regions,” Lotilla said.
The MES turnover is part of a broader DOE modernization initiative launched alongside the Energy Sector Emergency Operations Center in April 2024.
Two MES units have already been installed in the municipalities of Lal-lo and Sta. Ana in Cagayan Province, with another stationed at the DOE compound in Taguig. Four more units are scheduled for turnover next month.