Mindanao, the Philippines’ second-largest island, holds vast potential for solar energy thanks to its abundant sunlight and fewer typhoons compared to the rest of the country. Yet many of its communities still suffer from low electrification and unreliable power. Despite Mindanao’s resource wealth, decades of underinvestment and centralized infrastructure have created significant gaps in energy access.
To tap the island’s solar potential to light the region’s future, a group of volunteer-professionals launched Mindanao Goes Solar in 2022. Born out of extensive research on Mindanao’s solar energy landscape and a desire for inclusive progress, the advocacy group seeks to expand access to and awareness of clean, sustainable power for communities across the region.
“Solar, which is abundant in the country and is now the cheapest source of energy in the region and elsewhere, is the optimum solution to kickstart Mindanao’s clean energy transition,” Project Lead Philline Donggay shared in an interview with Asia News Network (ANN), a regional alliance of news outlets across Asia.
Donggay believes that solar energy is a practical solution for Mindanao, especially in areas that lack reliable electricity. She pointed out that solar photovoltaic (PV) systems work well in remote and off-grid locations because they don’t rely on centralized infrastructure. “This could help the regions finally achieve 100% electrification,” she explained.
(Also read: Mindanao Pushes for Energy Security Through Solar)
Shedding light through awareness, access, and local partnerships
Mindanao Goes Solar aims to increase awareness and knowledge of solar energy’s advantages among Mindanao’s consumers, decision-makers, and key stakeholders. The group regularly conducts educational awareness campaigns and outreach activities, several of which can be viewed on their YouTube channel.
To ensure high-quality installations and build consumer confidence, the organization is developing a trusted marketplace through a verified directory of solar service providers.
Donggay emphasized the importance of making solar energy visible and accessible to the public through on-the-ground initiatives. “These projects help heighten awareness of solar to Mindanao power consumers while experiential promotions such as public solar charging stops and solar sheds and solar outreach to remote communities…bring solar directly to the user,” she shared with ANN.
(Also read: Aboitiz-DepEd Partnership to Power 300 Off-Grid Schools)
Unlocking solar potential in Mindanao
As solar energy gains traction in Mindanao, several persistent challenges remain. According to Donggay, three key issues continue to affect the sector: a fledgling industry, policy implementation, and financing challenges.
One major hurdle is the early stage of the local solar industry, with many providers struggling to stay afloat. To support these fledgling businesses, the advocacy group conducts regular needs assessments and provides professional support.
Policy implementation also poses difficulties, particularly in applying Net Metering rules. To bridge this gap, Donggay said the group provides “knowledge sessions” to inform and guide relevant stakeholders.
To address financing challenges, Mindanao Goes Solar works closely with financial institutions to help promote available clean energy financing options, making solar PV more affordable for consumers in Mindanao.
As Mindanao confronts ongoing energy challenges, movements like Mindanao Goes Solar offer a promising path forward—one that is community-led, inclusive, and sustainable. By combining grassroots action with policy advocacy and industry support, the initiative is helping light the way toward an electrified, low-carbon future for the region.
Sources:
https://mindanaogoessolar.org/
https://www.youtube.com/@MindanaoGoesSolarMovement
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxUptCOCBRo
