The Department of Science and Technology–Ilocos Region (DOST-Ilocos Region) said renewable energy interventions under its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) are helping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Pangasinan significantly reduce electricity costs, sometimes up to 90%, through solar technology adoption.

According to DOST, 9 SETUP-assisted firms across the province have integrated solar power systems into their operations, resulting in lower electricity consumption, improved efficiency, and increased profitability.

The agency said rising energy costs continue to pressure local industries, prompting more businesses to explore renewable energy solutions such as rooftop solar systems. 

Among the firms assisted under the program, DL Hatchery and Balut Industry installed a 15-kilowatt solar panel system that reduced its annual electricity consumption by 53.2%.

R&E Poultry Farm also recorded a 43.07% reduction in energy use, while Rillera Farm reported a 90% drop in monthly electricity expenses — from PHP 135,000 to PHP 13,500.

Gerrilaide Farm reduced its energy costs by 78.3%, contributing to a 15% increase in annual gross income. Moon Light Farm also posted a 35% decrease in electricity consumption and a 15% increase in gross sales after fully integrating solar technology.

Solar systems help businesses offset electricity purchased from the power grid, reducing operational costs over time.

DOST also highlighted long-term gains from early adopters such as JPD Poultry Farm and Sunny View Farm, which have reportedly maintained up to 50% efficiency gains per production cycle since adopting solar systems in 2016 and 2017.

In the aquaculture sector, JL Hatchery Farm used solar technology to support temperature-controlled prawn fry production while lowering electricity consumption.

Meanwhile, Unicolor Printing Press recorded a 60.82% reduction in annual electricity consumption after investing in solar technology.

“Before, we paid approximately PHP 60,000 per month; now, our lowest bills range from zero to PHP 2,000,” said owner Teodora M. Dar.

DOST-Pangasinan Provincial Director Arnold C. Santos said the agency aims to ensure that renewable energy interventions deliver long-term operational resilience for MSMEs.

“Our goal is to ensure that these innovations translate into long-term resilience for our MSMEs,” Santos said. “Through regular monitoring of energy outputs and operational efficiency, we ensure that these interventions continue to perform at peak capacity—helping our local entrepreneurs remain competitive.”

The initiative forms part of DOST’s broader push for wealth creation, sustainability, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience through cleaner and more cost-efficient technologies.

As electricity prices continue to challenge small businesses, should more MSMEs invest in renewable energy technologies like rooftop solar?

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