MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur — Member of the Parliament Amilbahar Mawallil is pushing for the measure that seeks to install solar energy systems in all socialized housing programs in the Bangsamoro region, which can help generate savings on electricity bills.
Qualified end-users, as stated in BTA Bill No. 178, can protect themselves from possible volatilities of the energy market and contribute to the development of green energy.
The proposed measure, according to MP Mawallil, also seeks to support the Bangsamoro Government in fulfilling its mandate and institutionalizing the construction of renewable energy systems.
The solar energy systems will supply the electric power requirements, as an accessory use, to provide secure, clean, and environment-friendly power services in urban and rural areas in the region, especially in settlements for the disadvantaged, the homeless, those who have been victims of conflicts and atrocities, and internally displaced persons.
He explained that solar energy systems do not require extraction activities like large-scale mining or drilling, resulting in negative environmental impacts.
“Most important, solar panels can be installed on rooftops and designated areas without disrupting activities or dislocating electric power consumers,” he added, noting that solar energy systems can also generate substantial savings versus fossil-fueled power plants.
It is stated in the bill that energy efficiency should be considered in all phases of settlements planning, building design, and construction, both in electricity use and transmission.
Under the proposed measure, the Bangsamoro Government should ensure that the distribution utilities enter into net-metering agreements with all end-users of the solar energy system.
The net metering interconnection standards, pricing methodology, and mechanisms for the physical connection and commercial arrangements of the net-metering for solar energy shall be implemented pursuant to the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.
All first responders within the Bangsamoro region, such as firefighters and police officers, must undergo mandatory continuing education and training in order to ensure safety in neutralizing possible additional hazards that the solar energy systems may create
Co-authors of the bill are MPs Laisa Alamia, Suharto Ambolodto, Rasol Mitmug, Don Mustapha Loong, Rasul Ismael, Abraham Burahan, Sittie Shahara Mastura, and Paisalin Tago. (LTAIS-Public Information, Publication, and Media Relations Division)
