• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Negros Occidental provincial government has generated P5.6 million in electricity savings through its solarization project, as it continues to expand the use of renewable energy in its government facilities.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson announced the savings on Tuesday, Nov. 10 during the roadshow of renewable energy firm WeGen Energy Philippines Inc., which is showcasing its solar energy solutions at the Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City.
Lacson said solar installations at the Provincial Capitol Building, Negros Residences, and Food Terminal Market have already been completed, while the rooftop solar project at the Cyber Center is expected to be turned over and become operational by the end of November.
Based on the figures presented, the Provincial Capitol Building recorded electricity savings of P2,634,782 from September 2025 to September 2026.
Negros Residences saved P1,686,870 from October 2025 to September 2026, while the Food Terminal Market generated savings of P1,289,788 during the same period.
These facilities have collectively saved the provincial government P5,611,442 in electricity costs.
Lacson encouraged homeowners, particularly those struggling with rising electricity bills, to consider installing solar energy systems.
He also invited Capitol employees to visit the roadshow to learn more about the available technologies and services.
“If you are having difficulty meeting your electric bills, you may want to consider putting up solar panels. You can come and visit here at the Capitol Building and see what the company can offer you,” Lacson said.
WeGen executive Bob del Rosario said the national government’s target for local government units is to source at least 20 percent of their energy requirements from renewable energy.
However, he noted that Negros Occidental has already reached around 40 to 50 percent in its solar-powered facilities, exceeding the minimum target.
Del Rosario said WeGen included the Negros Occidental provincial government as one of the destinations of its nationwide roadshow because of their existing partnership.
He also cited the performance of Huawei inverters and power optimizers installed in the provincial government’s facilities, saying these equipment have been functioning well and producing the expected output.
The roadshow features Huawei FusionSolar’s latest product innovations and smart energy solutions, including technologies designed to help households and institutions maximize solar energy use.
Del Rosario said they are also eyeing to start the installation of solar panels at the Lorenzo D. Zayco District Hospital in Kabankalan City next month. | GPB
