By CESAR JOLITO III
Negros Occidental reaffirmed its commitment to achieving a cleaner, more sustainable energy future through the “SecuRE Negros” program, a comprehensive power security initiative launched last year.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson emphasized during the program’s activity launch that the province, in partnership with the Department of Energy and industry stakeholders, is working toward a just transition to renewable energy while addressing critical challenges affecting both the power sector and consumers.
“This vision — consistent with our Green Economy thrust — is focused on promoting renewable energy while tackling transmission infrastructure, power generation, storage, distribution systems, policy issues, and the regulatory environment,” Lacson said.
The provincial government recently signed a contract to install 1,270.5 kilowatts of total solar generation capacity across seven provincial facilities at no cost to the province, a move expected to significantly reduce electricity expenses.
“We are walking the talk. Our goal is for all local government units [LGUs] in Negros Occidental to be fully ‘solarized’ within the next three years,” the governor added.
Despite progress, several renewable energy projects in the pipeline remain stalled due to existing national and local policies. To address this, the provincial government is urging LGUs to harmonize investment codes, implement local energy codes, and establish electronic Virtual One-Stop Shops to streamline energy project processing.
“These measures are critical to speeding up completion of new projects and encouraging investments,” the governor stressed.
Energy Undersecretary Felix William “Wimpy” Fuentebella expressed the department’s full support, noting that the government is committed to working closely with provinces to achieve energy security and sustainability.
Fuentebella also praised the province for taking the step of making Negros Occidental a renewable energy province.
The province has also organized a series of forums, exhibits and activities over the next three days to promote solar photovoltaic solutions, electric vehicles, and other green technologies.
Exhibitors include local suppliers and international partners, such as a biogas company from Germany.
“In the long run, what matters is our common vision and resolute action,” Lacson said.
“Our aim is for every Negrense to have access to Renewable, Reliable, Accessible, Available, Affordable, and Sustainable Energy. That is what ‘SecuRE Negros’ is all about,” he added./CJ, WDJ