MARAWI CITY -- A measure that would reduce the cost of electricity for Bangsamoro government offices and buildings through the use of solar energy systems has been filed on June 15 in the Bangsamoro Parliament.

Member of Parliament Amilbahar Mawallil, principal author of BTA Bill No. 187, or the Solar Energy in Bangsamoro Government Offices Act of 2022, said the measure seeks to promote investments in the energy and power generation sector as well as the development of low-carbon, sustainable power generation policies.

"This will reduce dependence on fossil-fuel-based energy and lessen carbon emissions and pollution in the environment," said MP Mawallil.

MP Mawallil's measure is aimed at reducing government utility costs on electricity and easing the demands of the region's scarce power supply.

The bill also seeks to mandate all Bangsamoro government agencies to install solar energy systems in their respective offices and buildings.

As defined in BTA Bill No. 187, a solar energy system consists of one or more solar collection devices, solar energy-related "balance of system" equipment, and other infrastructure that generates and stores electricity.

He also cited a report released by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) stating many programs and laws being implemented towards the shift to solar energy have improved.

If passed into law, all Bangsamoro government agencies, in coordination with the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy, will start installing solar energy systems and retrofitting their respective buildings and offices within one year after the effectivity of the proposed bill. (BTA/PIA Lanao del Sur)