The provincial government of Dinagat Islands has entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) to launch renewable energy projects aimed at improving access to electricity in the island province, primarily benefiting hospitals and government buildings.
The initiative focuses on harnessing primarily solar and wind energy to address longstanding power supply challenges in Dinagat, where geographic isolation has made energy transmission costly and unreliable. The partnership is expected to support efforts toward stable, sustainable, and locally generated electricity.
In a PNA article, Governor Nilo Demerey Jr. said the shift to renewable energy could rapidly enhance economic development by powering essential services such as healthcare.
Reflecting on past challenges, Demerey emphasized the escalating electricity costs faced by the province’s hospitals, revealing that the provincial government allocated roughly PHP3.28 million for electricity in 2023, with expenses rising to PHP4.45 million in 2024.
“Our aim is not only to address these rising energy costs but also to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of our health and other essential social services for the people of Dinagat Islands,” Demerey added.
He further highlighted the province’s surging energy needs, fueled by expanding economic ventures and ongoing infrastructure projects. At present, the Dinagat Islands Electric Cooperative produces between 5.8 and 7.8 megawatts of power, mainly from three diesel power plants and two floating power barges.
PNOC’s involvement brings technical capacity and alignment with broader energy security goals. The collaboration highlights the role of public sector partnerships in accelerating clean energy adoption in remote areas.
Dinagat’s move into renewable energy is viewed as a potential model for other off-grid provinces facing similar challenges, illustrating how remote communities can participate in the country’s green energy transition.
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