Iloilo’s shift to renewable energy is delivering both environmental and fiscal gains, with public schools, hospitals, and government buildings now powered in part by solar energy under a province-wide clean energy push.
The initiative is reinforced by the recently approved Iloilo Schools Having Access to Renewable Energy (I-SHARE) ordinance, authored by Fourth District Board Member Rolando Distura.
The proposed measure seeks to provide public schools—particularly those in remote or off-grid areas—with solar panels and wind turbines, ensuring access to electricity for lighting, ventilation, digital learning tools, and internet connectivity.
Under the ordinance, the provincial government will allocate two percent of the previous year’s Provincial School Board Fund to finance the program while sustaining existing renewable energy projects in schools.
The province has already seen measurable results from its transition to solar power. Atty. Cesar Emmanuelle Buyco, head of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), said Iloilo saved more than P6.3 million in electricity expenses in just one year following the installation of solar photovoltaic panels in district hospitals and the provincial capitol.
To date, the provincial government has invested more than Php25.5 million in solar power systems, a move aligned with Governor Toto Defensor’s push for Green Smart Technology.
Buyco said the investment is expected to be recovered within two to three years, while the solar panels—designed to last at least 15 years—are projected to generate long-term savings that can be redirected to other development programs.
In its first year of operation, the Iloilo Provincial Capitol recorded over half a million pesos in reduced power costs, while the Iloilo Provincial Hospital saved more than P2.4 million.
Significant savings were also posted by district hospitals in Aleosan, Ramon Duremdes, Jesus M. Colmenares, and Dr. Ricardo Y. Ladrido.
In total, 405 kilowatts of solar photovoltaic capacity have been installed, with more public school buildings slated for similar upgrades.
Iloilo’s renewable energy drive has earned national recognition. In 2025, the province received the Sustainable Energy Award and was named Energy Champion by the Department of Energy after achieving full compliance with local energy efficiency plans and implementing innovative clean energy projects.
“Through I-SHARE and our existing solar programs, we are ensuring that public institutions—from schools to hospitals—benefit from clean, sustainable energy while also saving millions that can be used for other development projects,” Buyco said.
Provincial officials said the continued expansion of renewable energy initiatives is expected to strengthen Iloilo’s education and health services while positioning the province as a model for sustainable governance.IMT
