The European Union awarded about P 1.2 billion worth of clean energy grants to seven Filipino organizations on Thursday.
73 applicants proposed project solutions in terms of supplying clean energy in remote areas in the Philippines, said EU Ambassador to the Philippines Franz Jessen.
After assessing the applications, seven projects were chosen for the awarding of the funding under EU’s Access to Sustainable Energy Program (ASEP), which will run until 2021.
Jesse believes these new ASEP projects will contribute to the implementation of the Philippine government’s target to reach 100 percent nationwide electrification by 2020.
The project will begin in January 2019.
“In this context, the actions are also intended to contribute to improve the quality of life of marginalized rural community groups while at the same time mitigate the impact of climate change through assisting communities in rural areas to access renewable energy,” he said in a speech.
Out of seven receivers of the grant five were present during their ceremony, including: Martiniano Magdolot of Mahintana, Proferio Jabla Jr. of Yamog, Jose Ramon Villarin of Ateneo de Manila University, Jose Angelito Palma of Kabang Kalikasan WWF, and Claudia Oriolo Country Director of Clovek (People in Need).
The total grant amount will be coming from EU Share of 21 million euros, with an additional 7 million euros from the applicants and their partners.
Yamog chairperson Jabla said the bloc promised about more than 3.5 million euros for its project towards providing sustainable energy in off-grid communities in Mindanao.
At least 5,000 households are expected to benefit from Yamog project. Overall, the EU’s goal is to provide sustainable source of electricity to 40,000 households in the Philippines