The National Power Corporation (NPC) and its international partners have made significant progress in deploying rural solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, benefiting four electric cooperatives (ECs) in the Visayas and Mindanao grids.
Through the Access to Sustainable Energy Programme (ASEP), a partnership with the European Union and the World Bank, NPC has begun handing over solar facilities to ECs in Samar, South Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat.
The ASEP received funding of P3.8 billion (approximately EUR 66 million) and focuses on bringing electricity to remote and underserved areas that have lacked access for decades.
NPC implemented the installation of four 1-megawatt peak (MWp) greenfield solar PV power plants, linking them with the ECs’ distribution networks, with an investment of P280 million (about EUR 4.6 million).
Two of the plants are already operational, connected to the distribution networks of South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO II) and Sultan Kudarat Electric Cooperative (SUKELCO).
The remaining two connected networks of Samar I and II Electric Cooperatives (SAMELCO I and SAMELCO II) are expected to go online by the end of September 2023.
NPC’s President and CEO, Fernando Martin Y. Roxas, emphasized that this initiative supports the government’s goals for full electrification and renewable energy expansion.
The European Union (EU) noted that investments in solar energy will contribute to environmental sustainability, diversify energy supply, and help mitigate climate change.
European Union Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Véron reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in its transition to clean energy.
Ndiame Diop, Country Director of the World Bank, emphasized that the project exemplifies the bank’s dedication to promoting sustainable energy solutions for inclusive growth in the Philippines. Roxas expressed that the completion of these solar projects demonstrates a successful collaboration between NPC and its international partners.
He also highlighted NPC’s dedication to renewable energy technologies and showcased its technical expertise. In summary, NPC’s solar PV installations in partnership with the EU and World Bank are bringing electricity to underserved areas in the Philippines, contributing to sustainability and climate change mitigation efforts.
 is making strides in rural solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, benefiting four electric cooperatives in the Visayas and Mindanao regions. Supported by the Access to Sustainable Energy Programme (ASEP), in partnership with the European Union and the World Bank, this initiative aims to bring electricity to remote areas, reduce emissions, and promote sustainability. NPC's successful collaboration underscores its commitment to renewable energy technologies and expertise in the field.){kind=link}