By CESAR JOLITO III
Bringing reliable, affordable and sustainable energy to small communities is at the heart of Negros Occidental’s energy transition, as the province advances its energy framework for 2030 alongside the Renewable Energy Week Expo 2026 set for May 7 to 9.
Anchored on the goal of delivering reliable, renewable, accessible, affordable, available, and sustainable energy (RRAAASE-ON), the initiative highlights efforts to expand clean energy solutions — particularly solar power — to off-grid and marginalized areas across the province.
The three-day expo, organized by the provincial government with support from national agencies and key stakeholders, aims to gather government, industry, civil society and communities to accelerate renewable energy adoption and translate policy into action.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has emphasized the urgency of inclusive energy development, especially amid rising electricity costs, climate vulnerabilities and the need for universal access to modern energy services.
His Executive Order No. 04-09 designates the third week of May as Provincial Renewable Energy Week, reinforcing the province’s commitment to clean energy transition.
The initiative aligns with national priorities under the Philippine Energy Plan 2024-2040, which focuses on energy security, efficiency and affordability.
It is also supported by the province’s strategic roadmap for energy development, which outlines expanded renewable deployment and efficient energy use across sectors.
The expo builds on earlier “Be Ready Roadshow” engagements that gathered local commitments and assessed readiness for the transition, positioning Negros Occidental as a potential leader in subnational energy transformation.
Focus on awareness, capacity, investments
Among its key objectives, the Renewable Energy Week Expo 2026 aims to promote energy security and efficiency, encourage conservation practices, and accelerate the adoption of renewable and clean energy technologies.
It also supports the localization of national and provincial energy policies, including the SECURE Negros Energy Development Roadmap.
The event will help increase awareness among local government units (LGUs) and the public, strengthen alignment of local initiatives with broader energy policies, and enhance the capacity of LGUs to implement renewable energy and efficiency projects. It also seeks to foster new partnerships and attract investments into the province’s clean energy sector.
The expo will feature an exhibition area showcasing renewable technologies, energy efficiency solutions, financing mechanisms, and support programs.
Policy and technical forums will tackle energy security, LGU roles and transition strategies, while community learning sessions will highlight best practices.
Business matching activities are also set to connect solution providers, financiers and project proponents.
Key partners include the Department of Energy, the Negrense Initiative for Climate and the Environment, and the Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation, which are providing policy guidance, technical support, and public education efforts.
With sustained policy support, investments and collaboration, Negros Occidental aims to build an energy system that not only reduces costs and emissions but also ensures that even its smallest and most remote communities benefit.
The energy expo marks a crucial step in advancing this vision — bringing together stakeholders to turn the province’s renewable energy ambitions into concrete, inclusive outcomes./CJ, WDJ