De La Salle Lipa Joins 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge, Pushing for Energy Education

In a move signaling stronger educational involvement in renewable energy advocacy, De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED) to support the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge. This agreement, signed on March 19, places DLSL at the forefront of integrating renewable energy advocacy within the education sector.

Launched in July 2024, the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge aims to install 10 million solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across the Philippines through multi-sectoral collaboration. CEED, one of the initiative’s co-convenors, sees educational institutions like DLSL as key players in accelerating the transition to clean energy.

“This partnership with DLSL is exciting. With this challenge, we see how many are willing to welcome renewable energy. This challenge is for and by every Filipino—DLSL is one of the many examples of this,” said CEED Deputy Executive Director Avril De Torres.

DLSL’s participation is particularly significant given its location in Batangas, a province often associated with expanding fossil fuel developments despite the region’s vast potential for renewable energy. By joining the challenge, DLSL not only commits to promoting solar energy but also emphasizes the critical role of education in shifting public perceptions about renewable energy’s feasibility.

“We are excited to join the 10 Million Solar Rooftop Challenge. It is clear that education will play a huge role in the democratization of energy. For renewable energy to be integrated in society, effort needs to come from schools like us to help people understand that it is possible,” Dr. Merlin Teodosia C. Suarez said.

The involvement of academic institutions adds a unique dimension to the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge, reinforcing the belief that education and community engagement are essential for a successful energy transition. With backing from influential groups like the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, the challenge continues to gain momentum across various sectors.

As climate concerns grow and the push for renewable energy intensifies, DLSL’s partnership with CEED reflects a broader movement where schools play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future. This collaboration not only supports clean energy but also inspires future generations to advocate for environmental responsibility.

What do you think? Should more schools take the lead in renewable energy initiatives? Share your thoughts and join the discussion below.