DOE solar rooftop project readied

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Energy (DOE) is firming up its solar rooftop program with at least three schools expected to host pilot installations.

“Hopefully we can finalize the memoranda of agreement with at least three schools. We are focusing initially on NCR,” Mario C. Marasigan, the department’s director of DOE’s Renewable Energy Management Bureau, told reporters, adding that negotiations could be completed this week.

Once the pilot schools confirm their participation, the solar panel providers will be picked and construction will start.

“The pilot installations are just for 100 watts so it can be done in 60 days,” Marasigan said. “There are at least six participant-suppliers for the initial three or four schools so there will be a selection process.”

A lottery will be done, per project, so that the participant-suppliers all have a fair chance. After all, Marasigan said, they are taking all the financial and administrative risks. The schools will provide the space, will not spend for the solar installation, and will pay the supplier only for the energy produced.

“This will ensure that the suppliers will install their systems well. Without production, they don’t get paid,” Marasigan said.