An infrastructure-oriented thinktank called on the Energy Regulatory Commission to fast-track approvals of solar microgrid projects around the country, particularly in view of government’s implementation of the Balik Probinsiya, Bagong Pag-asa program.
“With island barangays and municipalities without 24/7 electricity, President Rodrigo Duterte’s Balik Probinsya program will be unviable for returning residents, as stable electricity in rural communities is an important component of local economic growth.”
This was the statement of Terry Ridon, Infrawatch PH convenor and Mr. Duterte’s former urban poor chief.
Cagbalete Island microgrid
RIdon cited the case of Cagbalete Island in Quezon, in which more than six hundred households remain without electricity due to regulatory hurdles.
“At present only one hundred Cagbalete households enjoy electricity from the microgrid. This clearly stunts economic activity for a majority of the population which should benefit from 24/7 electricity. The economic dividends of 24/7 electricity cannot be overstated.”
Ridon said Cagbalete’s nearest connection to the Luzon power grid is thirteen kilometers away in Mauban, Quezon.
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Ridon said the ERC should act quickly on Cagbalete’s pending application before the body, especially as the coronavirus pandemic ravages both national and local economies.
Immediate economic benefits
Ridon said with expanded solar microgrids in rural areas, the Balik Probinsya (BP) program’s economic prerequisites will be achieved.
“With the boosting of economic activity in rural areas, there will be more reasons for BP beneficiaries to actually stay in their communities instead of returning to the cities. This cannot be achieved without 24/7 electricity in rural areas, and microgrids are leading the way.”
Ridon said solar microgrids should support government’s shift to blended and online learning.
“Blended and online learning should pose little difficulty for learners in island and rural communities with 24/7 electricity. Even with limited teaching staff, the digital dividends that technology can bring to these areas should be fully explored.”