BACOLOD CITY: The provincial government of Negros Occidental has committed PHP2 million to collaborate with the University of St. La Salle (USLS) in Bacolod for the creation and institutionalization of an energy development roadmap.
According to Philippines News Agency, the partnership, formalized with a memorandum of agreement signed earlier this week (January 8), will span six months. Key components of the project include the Provincial Consultative Power Summit, Renewable Energy Week/Expo, and the adoption of the Negros Occidental Energy Development Roadmap.
The project is designed to involve multiple sectors in a consultative and participatory process. This approach aims to secure the formal adoption of the roadmap and ensure its continued implementation. The initiative is a response to recommendations from the Negros Occidental Power Sector Assessment Study.
Under the agreement, the roadmap will feature a coordinating and implementing structure, headed by the Provincial Just Energy Transition Council. This council will play a crucial role in guiding the energy transition in the province.
Part of the project's strategy involves engaging local government units and the power-consuming public to support the provincial government's agenda for power security. This engagement will be facilitated through various initiatives, including the passage of the Renewable Energy Week Ordinance, the organization of a Renewable Energy Expo, and the execution of an information, education, and communication campaign.
These efforts are aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and commitment to renewable energy and energy security in Negros Occidental.