Calamba, Laguna — In a significant step toward enhancing energy efficiency and reducing electricity costs across government facilities, the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region IV-A have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on August 27, 2024. The agreement signals a shared commitment to sustainable energy solutions in line with the country’s broader energy goals and climate change mitigation efforts.

Under the MOA, PNOC and NEDA Region IV-A will collaborate on the “Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic for Government Buildings Project” or the RGB Project, a key initiative aimed at reducing electricity consumption in public buildings through the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The project will begin with the installation of these solar PV systems at NEDA Region IV-A facilities.

The MOA was signed by PNOC President and CEO Oliver B. Butalid and NEDA Assistant Secretary Agnes E. Tolentino, both of whom expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s potential to drive sustainable energy solutions. Also present was Assistant Regional Director Carmel P. Matabang, who underscored the importance of the project in achieving energy efficiency goals for the region.

“PNOC’s role is to support the energy transition agenda of the Department of Energy, particularly promoting energy efficiency among government entities. Rooftop solar PV systems in government owned buildings is one of the services PNOC will be providing aside from demand aggregation (Retail Electricity Supply) and smart air condition technology” said Mr. Butalid.

NEDA Region IV-A, known for its expertise in socioeconomic planning, has identified energy efficiency as a key component in enhancing government operations. With the signing of the MOA, NEDA Region IV-A is now set to benefit from the cost savings and improved energy management that the RGB Project promises.

“I hope this partnership is only the start of more partnerships not only in NEDA but to the whole of CALABARZON as well,” said Assistant Secretary Tolentino.

The RGB Project, led by PNOC, is designed to provide government buildings with a full range of energy efficiency solutions. Additional MOAs with other government agencies under this project are expected to follow.

By harnessing the power of solar PV systems, the project not only aims to reduce electricity bills but also aligns with the Philippine government’s drive for renewable energy adoption and climate change mitigation. Both PNOC and NEDA Region IV-A are confident that their collaboration will set an example for other government agencies, showcasing the benefits of transitioning to renewable energy solutions.