Faced with the rising costs of fuel and the constant pressure of volatile electricity prices, the City Government of Naga is embarking on a significant shift toward renewable energy, marking a new chapter in its drive for sustainable governance.
As part of a private-public partnership initiative providing donations and free installation services for the Naga City Rooftop Solar PV Project, solar panels are now being mounted atop the Naga City People’s Hall and soon, the Raul S. Roco Library. Made possible through a donation by Nagueño Joseph Nocos of Emerging Power, Inc., alongside chosen contractor Ecological Energy Technologies, the initiative supplies the city with premium solar infrastructure at no cost to the local government.
Mayor Leni Robredo described this move as a “general direction” toward shifting to renewable energy, which aims to alleviate the financial burden of soaring electricity and fuel costs. By utilizing solar power, the city expects to see a significant drop in operational expenditures, specifically for its government offices.
“Pag natapos na po iyan, dakulaon na maray na savings an satuyang makakamtan,” said Mayor Robredo, highlighting the pragmatic financial benefits of the transition to renewable energy.
The initiative is supported by a series of resolutions and ordinances of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, reflecting a unified effort by the executive and legislative branches to institutionalize energy efficiency.
Naga’s strategy goes beyond existing structures: future public projects are now required to integrate space for solar panels into their design, ensuring that new facilities are energy-ready from the start. This mandate covers upcoming developments including the Naga City Hospital Dormitory, Center for Safety and Resiliency (CESAR), the Metro Naga Sports Complex, the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum, and the ongoing improvements at the Naga City Civic Center.
By harnessing the sun to outpace rising fuel and electricity costs, Naga City is laying the groundwork for lasting fiscal and environmental resilience. | via Maida Boragay
