By Stephanie Camille Ilar

To help build cleaner and energy-resilient communities, the Affiliated Renewable Energy Center of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU AREC) organized the Renewable Energy Partnership Summit for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System Installers and Local Government Units of Ilocos Norte on August 6 at the Center for Flexible Learning.

The summit aimed to standardize net metering processes for solar power and to lay the groundwork for clearer, unified guidelines among the different towns and cities, thus advancing renewable energy in the province.

Board member Dr. Medeldorf Gaoat, representing Honorable Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, affirmed the provincial government’s support for the harmonization of LGU policies on renewable energy. 
“Disaster preparedness, energy efficiency, and sustainability remain our top priorities, and we are committed to adopting renewable energy solutions that protect the environment and enhance community well-being,” he said.

Meanwhile, MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. emphasized that the summit can help propel Ilocos Norte toward rural development through the use of this type of renewable energy.

He also expressed hope that participants would achieve the goals of the one-day event and reflect on how they can provide more meaningful contributions to national development.

Stakeholders from the Department of Energy (DOE), Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), convened at the event to share their expertise in Energy Virtual One Shared System (EVOSS), net metering implementation, and consumer protection in solar installations, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative (INEC) shared the current net metering status in the province.

On the importance of the initiative, AREC extension head Engr. Willen Mark D. Manzanas said, “Renewable energy is not just about savings or going green. It’s about making sure our communities are ready, especially when disasters strike.”

As solar energy adaptation continues to expand, the summit responds to the challenges related to technical quality, policy clarity, and institutional coordination.