The island of Matabas off Sagay City in Negros Occidental is positioned to become a model for community-based renewable energy (RE) projects as it showcases a 25-kilowatt solar power facility and a solar-powered water desalination system benefiting about 150 households.
“This is part of the province’s broader renewable energy transition program. We hope Matabas can become a model for community-based renewable energy projects that can be replicated in other remote areas,” former governor Rafael Coscolluela, now the provincial consultant for environment and energy, said in a statement on Tuesday.
The initiative, implemented by the Negrosanon Initiative for Climate and the Environment (NICE) with support from non-profit organization Honnold Foundation and other partners, was commissioned under the REPower Matabas Project to mark World Oceans Day on June 8.
The REPower Matabas Project comprises a 12-kilowatt hybrid solar system powering a water desalination facility, an eight-kilowatt hybrid solar rooftop system for the school, and a five-kilowatt solar system for the island church.
Also included are 70 solar-powered streetlights, community charging stations, and a battery energy storage system.
Part of Barangay Molocaboc, Matabas, which can be reached in 45 to 50 minutes by boat from Vito wharf, will benefit from the solar energy project in many ways.
Providing reliable power, the REPower Matabas Project improves access to safe water, reduces energy costs, enhances public safety through street lighting, and supports education and community activities.
NICE secretary-general Joshua Villalobos led the project commissioning, which was also attended by Coscolluela, Second District. Rep. Alfredo Marañon III and Board Member Arthur Christopher Marañon.
Rep. Marañon thanked the project partners, concerned local officials, and land donors, saying the dream of the people of Matabas of having a reliable water and power supply has become a reality.
Villalobos said that as an off-grid island community, Matabas is not included in the electrification plans of the Northern Negros Electric Cooperative.
“The project was designed not only to provide clean energy, but also to address development challenges identified by the community itself,” he added.
Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva, represented by executive assistant Vincent Rivera, reaffirmed the city’s support for initiatives that directly improve the quality of life of Sagay’s island communities, particularly in terms of access to reliable water and energy supply.
The REPower Matabas Project also involves the shared responsibility of stakeholders to advance women-led, community-centered clean energy solutions for off-grid island communities.
Members of the Matabas Active Women Association will undergo training on alternative livelihood and disaster risk reduction and management, highlighting the role of clean energy in both aspects. (PNA)