USAID Promotes Renewable Energy Use In CDO

For local communities to embrace sustainable business methods, it’s important to be exposed to best practices around the world. Cagayan de Oro took a big step towards sustainability as it welcomed the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for a two-day workshop entitled “Developing the Local Energy Plan (LEP).”

The workshop was part of USAID’s partnership with the local government of Cagayan de Oro in the promotion of the use of indigenous renewable energy sources while spreading awareness of the benefits of clean energy to stakeholders.

Energy Independence

Indigenous renewable energy sources reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, enhancing national energy security. Moreover, local energy resources empower communities to have greater control over their energy production, leading to more stable and predictable energy supply.

Elvisa Mabellin, the assistant chief at the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO), shared that the Local Energy Plan (LEP) is geared towards prioritizing renewable energy sources for various city programs, including emergency response efforts.

The local government is considering several initiatives, such as creating a hybrid system that uses both solar and diesel generators for backup power in evacuation centers. They also plan to install solar panels on city hall buildings and put up solar-powered streetlights at key city landmarks.

Educating The Community

During the workshop, they discussed the development of a communication plan to educate stakeholders and discussed possible amendments to the Local Energy Code to highlight energy conservation and the use of renewable energy.

Cagayan de Oro (CDO) is one of the three areas chosen for USAID’s City Development Initiative training, aimed at helping them create a local energy plan. The other two are the provinces of Romblon and Batangas.

This workshop was sponsored by USAID’s Energy Secure Philippines initiative in partnership with the Department of Energy. This activity happened just a day after the Cagayan de Oro City Council showed its support for the national government’s efforts to cut down carbon emissions.

Source: CdO, USAID press indigenous energy use