As part of its effort in mainstreaming the use of renewable energy in its facilities, the Iloilo provincial government has embarked on the installation of solar rooftop projects in district hospitals.
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. led the turnover of the 30-Kilowatt Solar Photovoltaic and Efficiency Project (Phase I) worth P3.5 million intended for the COVID Ward and Service Award of Aleosan District Hospital in the municipality of Alimodian on March 6, 2024.
The province also broke ground the construction of the Phase II which involves the installation of 30-kilowatt rooftop solar PV and streetlights which cost P3.7 million.
Joining the governor during the event are Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, Hospital Management Office Chief Dr. Paz Calopiz, Aleosan District Hospital Chief Dr. Cherubin Estrellanes, Mayor. Ian Kenneth A. Alfeche, Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office chief Atty. Atty. Cesar Emmanuelle Buyco, Jr., PGENRO Energy Efficiency Excellence Focal Rey Victor Garin and representatives from the Department of Energy and Panay Energy Development Corporation, among others.
These renewable projects are funded through the province’s share from generation companies as provided by Section 66 of Republic Act 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 or EPIRA Law.
Governor Defensor said the installation of solar projects in district hospitals is part of his development thrust under MoRProGRes Iloilo (Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Province of Iloilo) which is to ensure a reliable energy source in the province.
“Why solar? Because we want our energy to be more reliable, more environment-friendly, and economical. That is the direction of the province with respect to our hospitals and other facilities,” the governor said.
Banias said the provincial government’s transition to renewable energy is part of its contribution to the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP). Last year, the provincial government received the Energy Excellence Efficiency Excellence Award from the DOE for its implementation of GEMP.
Banias said that the solar project saved the Aleosan District Hospital about P80,000 from its monthly bill.
Meanwhile, three more hospitals are added to the list of recipients for the renewable energy project – Ramon D. Duremdes District Hospital in Dumangas, Jesus M. Colmenares Memorial District Hospital in Balasan, and Dr. Ricardo Y. Ladrido Memorial Hospital in Lambunao. (Capitol news)
