_{Photo credit: Klook}

The Department of Energy (DOE) has brought clean and flexible power to one of the Philippines’ southernmost islands, as it delivered a Mobile Energy System (MES) to Balabac, Palawan.

The deployment, carried out on October 3 through the National Power Corporation (NPC) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), forms part of the DOE’s partnership with the U.S. Government under the Energy Secure Philippines Activity, a program that aims to expand access to reliable, renewable energy in underserved and off-grid areas.

Housed in a 20-foot trailer, the MES features 9.18 kWp solar panels, a 60 kVA hybrid inverter, and 102.4 kWh of battery storage—enough to power essential facilities such as schools, health centers, and emergency command posts.

“This project highlights the power of strategic cooperation and shared commitment between our nations,” said Energy Secretary Sharon Garin. “Under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, we are not only providing electricity, we are enabling opportunity, security, and resilience for the people of Balabac Island.”

Balabac sits at the southern tip of Palawan, an area viewed as vital to the country’s maritime security. Beyond its geopolitical value, the island’s electrification promises to uplift local communities through better education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities—particularly for small businesses and fishing villages.

According to the DOE, the modular and mobile nature of the MES allows rapid deployment to areas affected by disasters or fuel supply disruptions, strengthening the country’s capacity for energy resilience. Similar units have previously been used in typhoon-hit municipalities such as Lal-lo and Santa Ana in Cagayan.

“Energy access is the cornerstone of inclusive growth and resilience,” said NPC President Koko Nograles. “This project demonstrates how technology and partnership can directly uplift communities, especially those that have long remained in the margins.”

The Balabac MES will initially power the Balabac Central School and its surrounding community, with expansion plans already being developed. The system is expected to reduce reliance on expensive diesel generators while cutting emissions and operational costs.

The DOE said the initiative represents a broader vision for an inclusive, secure, and sustainable energy future—one that ensures no Filipino community is left behind.

What other off-grid communities should benefit next from modular, renewable energy systems like this? Share your thoughts on how mobile clean power can strengthen the country’s energy resilience and regional development.

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