The Department of Energy (DOE) has signed separate agreements with the Provincial Government of Iloilo and the City Government of Bacolod to promote solar power use and energy efficiency in public buildings.
The agreements, signed on Monday by Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, Iloilo governor Arthur Defensor Jr., and Bacolod mayor Greg Gasataya, support the Government Energy Management Program, which targets at least 10 percent energy savings in government operations.
Under the partnerships, the DOE will provide technical assistance for solar panel installation and energy-efficient equipment, as well as training for local officials and technical staff.
The DOE cited Iloilo as the first local government unit to pass a renewable energy resolution, leading to projects such as solar-powered district hospitals, solar streetlights, and a solar-powered desalination facility. In Bacolod, the partnership will focus on identifying priority public buildings for solar and energy efficiency upgrades.
The DOE said several other local governments and national agencies have entered similar agreements as part of efforts to advance clean energy use in the public sector.
