DOE-Visayas fetes stakeholders for roles in efficient, renewable energy drive

Local

AS SOLAR solar panels glint atop floating farms and provincial halls push renewable energy policies, the Visayas region is simultaneously celebrating milestones in clean energy and grappling with tightening electricity reserves.

This highlights both the progress and the pressures facing the region’s energy sector.

The Department of Energy (DOE) Visayas recently recognized local governments, private corporations, cooperatives, and individual leaders for their significant contributions to renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Through its Energy Champions Leaders, Achievers, and Pioneers (E-CLAP) awards, DOE Visayas honored initiatives that advance sustainable energy adoption and promote decarbonization across industries.

Cebu Provincial Board Member Dr. Stanley S. Caminero was honored for his dedication to institutionalizing health and safety practices in coal mining operations, ensuring safer and more sustainable extraction processes.

The Bohol Provincial Government was cited as a Pioneer Local Government Unit for establishing the Bohol Renewable Energy Board, a dedicated policy and oversight body to guide the province’s renewable energy programs.

Iloilo Provincial Government received recognition as a Leader Local Government Unit for implementing the Government Energy Management Program, a framework aimed at institutionalizing energy efficiency practices in government operations.

Meanwhile, Iloilo Provincial Board Member Rolando B. Distura received accolades for promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency through legislation, including the Iloilo Provincial Ordinance on Renewable Energy.

The private sector also drew attention for pioneering efforts.

The Central Visayas Aquaculture Cooperative was recognized for establishing a megawatt-scale floating solar power project, one of the first of its kind in the region.

Nissin Monde Corporation earned awards for its innovative mixed-use operations, which integrate energy-efficient practices to promote decarbonization in manufacturing.

Renewable energy consultant Engr. Silverio T. Navarro Jr. was likewise honored for championing the productive use of renewable energy across various applications.

The Regional Development Council-Central Visayas also received recognition for incorporating a special chapter on energy transition into its regional development plan, making renewable energy promotion a formal component of regional planning.

DOE officials said that recognizing the region’s energy champions underscores ongoing efforts to advance sustainable energy practices while addressing operational challenges.(MyTVCebu)