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Ilocos Norte is advancing its renewable energy agenda with the launch of a Solar Rooftop Program, aiming to power government buildings, schools, and public facilities through solar energy. The initiative seeks to cut electricity costs and reduce the province’s reliance on fossil fuels, marking a major step in its sustainability efforts.
This green push was formalized through a memorandum of understanding recently signed by the provincial government, ACEN Corporation, and the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative (INEC). The collaboration underscores Ilocos Norte’s leadership in clean energy adoption, positioning the province as a model for solar integration in public infrastructure.
ACEN, the Ayala Group’s energy arm, brings proven expertise to the table, having spearheaded major clean energy projects such as the 41-MW Bangui Wind Farm and the 160-MW Balaoi-Caunayan Wind Farm.
To ensure seamless implementation, INEC will oversee the integration of solar installations into the local power grid. Their role is key to maintaining a stable, efficient energy flow as the province transitions toward more sustainable power sources.
According to Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc, the Solar Rooftop Program marks “a huge step forward for the energy sector in Ilocos Norte.” He emphasized the importance of inclusive collaboration, urging all energy partners involved in the tripartite agreement to prioritize transparency and safeguard the interests of all stakeholders.
(Also read: ACEN Grants P30M Funding Boost to Pagudpud Wind Project)
Provincial government leading the way
The rollout of Ilocos Norte’s Solar Rooftop Program is already underway, beginning with the installation of solar panels atop the provincial capitol.
Following the capitol retrofit, similar solar systems will be installed on several major facilities, including the Dap-ayan Commercial Building, Governor Roque B. Ablan Sr. Provincial Hospital, and district hospitals in Bangui, Dingras, and Marcos. These installations aim to boost energy efficiency across essential public services.
Different local government units in Ilocos Norte have recently completed energy audits, revealing that approximately P45 million will be required to carry out the solar initiative. The planned installations are expected to deliver a combined peak capacity of 470 kilowatts.
(Also read: SNAP Expands Magat BESS, Targets 80 MW by 2026)
Reducing energy costs
Upon completion, INEC anticipates that the solar rooftop systems will slash the province’s electricity expenses by up to 40%. The energy produced will be fed directly into the local distribution grid, helping to offset consumption from traditional power sources.
The project also aligns with House Bill 7625, championed by Ilocos Norte Representative Ferdinand Alexander Araneta Marcos III. The proposed legislation seeks to require all national government offices to install solar energy systems capable of covering a minimum of 10% of their power consumption, reinforcing the shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy use in public institutions.
Despite Ilocos Norte hosting several renewable energy facilities, including solar and wind farms, INEC revealed that most household electricity still comes from coal-fired plants. Nationwide, renewables such as wind, solar, hydro, and geothermal contribute only about 20% to the country’s overall energy supply.
ACEN Chief Executive Officer Eric Francia welcomed the partnership with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte and INEC, highlighting the dual impact of the Solar Rooftop Program. “This solar rooftop program will definitely help the people of Ilocos Norte, not only by taking care of the environment but also by empowering communities,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Governor Manotoc expressed gratitude to the collaborating partners, describing the program as a major milestone in Ilocos Norte’s clean energy journey. He stressed the importance of ensuring that the initiative brings tangible advantages to residents while safeguarding their rights and welfare.
Sources:
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1249691
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