Island towns are also to benefit the project
TACLOBAN CITY– A shift toward cleaner, more affordable power may soon be on the horizon in Northern Samar, as the provincial government looks to partner with renewable energy firm Berde Renewables Inc. to address persistent electricity issues in the province.
Governor Harris Ongchuan met with Berde Renewables executive Patrick Zhu on July 16 to explore solar-powered energy solutions that could provide stable and low-cost electricity in the province, especially among its island towns that currently rely on expensive and unreliable diesel generators.
“We are committed to ensuring that even the most remote parts of our province have access to reliable and sustainable energy,” Ongchuan said. “This is not just about technology—it’s about equitable development for all Nortehanons.”
The proposed collaboration includes the installation of stand-alone solar power systems customized for rural communities, which could drastically reduce energy costs and dependency on fossil fuels.
Provincial officials estimate that current rates range from P12 to P14 per kilowatt-hour. With Berde’s entry, consumers could see costs slashed to as low as P6 to P8 per kilowatt-hour.
One of the first beneficiaries of the shift to solar energy will be the provincial capitol complex in Catarman. By partially running on solar power, the local government could cut its P3 million monthly electric bill by up to 50%.
Jhon Allen Berbon, head of the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions, noted that Berde Renewables will handle the entire solar setup—from installation to distribution—while the provincial government will assist with permits and act as a guaranteed power buyer.
The Northern Samar Electric Cooperative (Norsamelco) has also thrown its support behind the plan, seeing it as a step toward a more resilient and efficient power system for the province.
Berde Renewables, a Manila-based company, operates over 40 solar energy sites across the country and produces more than 4.1 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.
The company is set to return to Northern Samar in August to conduct feasibility studies and begin groundwork for what could be a transformative energy project aligned with the national government’s clean energy goals.
JOEY A. GABIETA
