By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Department of Energy (DOE) has recently concluded its Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign on the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP) and other voluntary renewable energy programs in Iloilo City.
The event, held at the Goldberry Lite Hotel, served as a platform to promote sustainable energy practices and encourage stakeholder participation in renewable energy adoption.
Key officials from the DOE, along with representatives from various businesses, local government units (LGUs), and other interested parties, attended the event.
DOE Assistant Secretary Mylene Capongcol, in her opening remarks, underscored the department’s efforts to continuously enhance the GEOP.
Established under the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, GEOP allows consumers with a demand of 100 kW or higher to choose their electricity supplier from a list of renewable energy sources, aligning with their sustainability goals.
“Businesses aiming for net zero targets predominantly explore GEOP. The program offers benefits such as electricity cost savings, aiding in reaching their net zero targets,” explained Angelica De Los Santos, Senior Science Research Specialist, during her presentation.
Zando Flores, Facilities Manager at Philippine IINO Corporation, shared during a panel discussion how transitioning to GEOP has enhanced their company’s competitiveness and public image while realizing significant energy cost reductions and operational savings.
The event also introduced the newly launched Policy on Expanded Roof-Mounted Solar Program (ERSP), which encourages end-users and establishments to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on their rooftops, offering various business models to facilitate renewable energy generation.
The success of these initiatives relies on the active participation of a diverse group of stakeholders, from energy consumers to business owners and policymakers.
The event included interactive sessions that provided insights into the technical, financial, and regulatory aspects of implementing these programs.
In her closing remarks, Director Marissa P. Cerezo of the DOE Renewable Energy Management Bureau expressed her gratitude to the speakers and participants. She emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving a sustainable energy future.
The DOE’s commitment to enhancing renewable energy use and reducing the nation’s carbon footprint is part of a global effort to combat climate change.
