Bonifacio Global City, Taguig — In a significant step toward advancing energy efficiency and renewable energy, the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) under the Rooftop Solar PV for Government Buildings (RGB) Project. This collaboration, signed on October 7, 2024, aims to reduce electricity costs and improve energy management in government facilities. The MOA establishes a lease-to-own arrangement between PNOC and TESDA for an 80-kWp Solar PV System installed on the rooftop of TESDA Regional Training Center  – NCR. The project reflects both organizations’ commitment to supporting the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) in enhancing the utilization of renewable energy across the country.

Center Administrator Director Gilbert M. Castro, representing Regional Director Engr. Jovencio M. Ferrer, Jr. signed the agreement on behalf of TESDA – NCR while PNOC President and CEO Oliver B. Butalid represented PNOC in the historic signing.

Mr. Butalid emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “We are proud to support the government’s drive for energy efficiency. What’s more efficient than generating your own electricity? We look forward to scaling this partnership further.” Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Castro added, “This is a landmark agreement for TESDA, not just for reducing electricity costs but also to inspire other regional training centers to explore similar initiatives.”

TESDA, the government agency responsible for technical education and skills development, views this collaboration as a crucial step in adopting sustainable energy practices. The partnership aligns with TESDA’s ongoing efforts to integrate renewable energy solutions while continuing to provide inclusive, quality-assured education and skills development. In fact, TESDA already offers training programs on PV System Installation NC II, further reinforcing the alignment between its mission and the objectives of this partnership. As part of PNOC’s innovative RGB Project, the partnership provides TESDA with energy efficiency services through solar photovoltaic systems, helping the institution save on electricity costs and improve overall operational efficiency.

This MOA is a testament to the broader goals of both PNOC and TESDA to drive innovation, sustainability, and renewable energy adoption within the public sector, contributing to the country’s energy independence and environmental sustainability goals.