10 million solar rooftops initiative launched to tackle high energy costs

In a bold move to combat soaring electricity prices and environmental concerns, various advocacy groups and community representatives launched the “10 Million Solar Rooftop Challenge” on Tuesday.

The initiative, announced at the “Summit for Clean and Affordable Renewable Energy” held at Novotel Quezon City, aims to install 10 million solar rooftops across the Philippines, potentially generating at least 10 GW of clean energy.

“The Philippines has an abundant potential for renewable energy, as much as 91 GW of which comes from solar rooftops alone,” said Avril De Torres, Deputy Executive Director of the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED).

“This Challenge places a spotlight on these citizen actions, while seeking our national authorities’ urgent response to the hope of Filipinos for more affordable and reliable electricity.”

The announcement comes on the heels of Manila Electric Company’s rate hike of over Php 2/kWh for July, pushing household electricity costs up by Php 430 for a 200 kWh consumer.

Solar rooftops, however, promise significant savings, with a 1 kW system estimated to save households about Php 16,800 annually.

Bishop Gerry Alminaza, Vice President of Caritas Philippines, emphasized the dual benefits of the initiative.

“Our dependence on coal and gas to this date weighs heavily both on the pockets of consumers, and on the ailing health of our environment and climate. No one should ignore it when there is an opportunity to empower Filipinos in uplifting themselves from economic burdens of high electricity rates, while helping address today’s ecological crisis.”

The challenge is backed by a national consortium including Caritas Philippines, Power for People Coalition (P4P), Reboot Philippines, Ateneo de Davao University, WWF-Philippines, and many others.

These organizations underscore the potential of renewable energy to decentralize power structures, spur economic growth, and mitigate environmental impact.

Senator Loren Legarda, co-author of the Renewable Energy Law of 2008, voiced her support.

“The launch of the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge marks a pivotal moment in our nation’s pursuit of energy independence, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience.”

Brenda Valerio, Philippines Country Director of New Energy Nexus, urged all stakeholders to rally behind the initiative.

“Our actions in the next few years will be critical in helping us achieve our energy and climate targets. With rooftop solar being the most affordable and easy-to-install technology that can give energy users clean and reliable power, now is the time for all stakeholders to come together and commit to really accelerating distributed solar as this campaign needs all hands on deck.”