Philippine Lawmaker Pushes Bill Requiring Solar Power in Government Buildings

A measure has been introduced in the Philippine House of Representatives that seeks to mandate the installation of on-grid solar energy systems in all government buildings and offices.

House Bill No. 3126, filed by Abra Representative Joseph Sto. Niño Bernos, proposes a phased rollout under which government agencies would be required to source at least 20% of their electricity from solar within the first year of installation, scaling up to 100% within five years.

Bernos said the initiative would lower power costs, reduce carbon emissions, and demonstrate renewable energy’s viability in the public sector. He noted that the declining cost of solar technology and the 25–30 year lifespan of panels make the systems a cost-efficient and sustainable investment.

While the bill targets government facilities, Bernos also encouraged households to adopt solar, saying that reduced reliance on the grid could help communities access more energy resources.