To further intensify its renewable energy project, by distributing 6,000 solar home system (SHS) units in far flung areas of North Cotabato, its power provider Cotabato Electric Cooperative (Cotelco) Incorporated has partnered with the Department of Energy (DoE) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA).

To start the project, Cotelco has its initial distribution of 1,063 SHS units that is funded under the NEA's General Appropriations Act. The units were given to identified households in the municipalities of M'lang and Tulunan.

According to Cotelco general manager Godofredo Homez, to answer the distance and limited cooperative resources of these identified areas the project aims to energize them and give access to "on-grid" electricity services.

A solar panel that has enclosed battery for external universal serial bus outlets for charging gadgets, four bulbs, a rechargeable flashlight, and a portable radio set comprise the SHS package.

Homez added that it will only serve as a temporary tool for these households for now, as they gradually extend the power lines to the far away parts under their service coverage area.

According to the Cotelco, a number of 1,600 solar units under the Productive Uses of Renewable Energy (PURE) initiative, is set to arrive anytime this year and to be delivered by the DOE.

Photo Credit: PNA file