Weathering the impossible but...

LAST WEEK, the province of Negros Occidental embarked on a six-year campaign for energy security, aiming for 100% renewable energy (RE) dependence.

Dubbed “SecuRE Negros”, this multi- sectoral power advocacy is spearheaded by the provincial government of NegOcc, in collaboration with academia and other energy stakeholders on the island, including the Catholic Church.

The initiative was born out of a P2-million Energy Road Map (ERM) developed by the University of St. La Salle- Bacolod ( USLS- B) and funded by the provincial government through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with USLS-B. It represents a monumental effort to achieve power that is available, accessible, sustainable, and affordable for every Negrense.

However, Lito Coscolluela, a former governor now serving as a capitol consultant to Gov. Bong Lacson on energy and environment, admits that the journey towards this goal is challenging.

BUT WHY?

As someone previously involved in the energy sector, I do have a little knowledge about the RE advocacy. The push for total RE dependence is hindered by the high upfront costs associated with many forms of RE — wind, geothermal, biomass, hydroelectric, and solar power—all of which require costly equipment for sustainability.

Despite numerous laws and orders aimed at promoting RE advocacy, several shortcomings have been encountered. One example is Resolution No. 8, Series of 2023, by the Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee (IAEECC), which urges government entities to adopt solar photovoltaic ( PV) systems and engage in self-generating, distributed energy resources, or net metering agreements with their host distribution utility. Yet, the resolution’s implications remain unclear.

SO, WHEN?

I concur with Coscolluela’s assertion, “So, if not now, when?”

While achieving our goal may seem impossible now, equating impossibility with inaction can harm future generations. We should heed Coscolluela’s advice: if faced with “impossibilities,” we must do whatever is possible to succeed.

THEN, HOW?

Trust in the Lord and take action, as emphasized by Negros bishops Patricio Buzon (Diocese of Bacolod), Louie Galbines (Diocese of Kabankalan), and Gerardo Alminaza (Diocese of San Carlos) in a collegial statement released to the media.

They argue that transitioning to RE is both an environmental necessity and a moral obligation, essential for social justice and reducing inequalities.

The bishops assert that “SecuRE Negros” is a significant advancement in establishing an RE roadmap for Negros, in line with their call to care for creation and live faith through action.

In summary, the Negros prelates urge everyone to collaborate harmoniously and with determined purpose to realize a fair energy transition that honors our shared home — the Earth—and treasures the gift of creation.

Primordial Interest

The creativity behind “SecuRE Negros” is commendable. According to Coscolluela, Negros is ideally positioned for an RE transition, ready to exploit its geothermal, wind, hydro, and solar resources for our benefit and that of Mother Earth in the foreseeable future. The campaign’s ultimate goal is to protect the environment amidst industrialization, global warming, and climate change—nothing more, nothing less. Indeed, caring for the environment while advocating for economic progress is not only possible but necessary.

Balance, as they say, is key. Power is crucial in our digital and modernizing world. Who knows? Leveraging the “love gifts” of nature might soon prove to be our best strategy. All we need is focus and faith in God.

Malay ko, malay mo, the next morning, 100% RE na tayo!/ PN