A Japanese research institute has begun assessing the potential for renewable energy microgrids in remote areas of Palawan.
Board Member Ryan Maminta said Friday that it is a move that could pave the way for improved electricity access in communities that remain beyond the reach of the power grid.
He said representatives of the Mitsubishi Research Institute (MRI), a Japanese think tank, visited the Provincial Board and held initial discussions on the Sustainable Energy for Island and Distributed Off-grid System (SEIDO) Project.
Maminta, who chairs the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Energy, said the discussions focused on the possible implementation of renewable energy microgrids in selected areas of the province.
The delegation included MRI Program Manager for Energy Koki Akabane, Consultant Ibuki Masuda, Manager Kyoko Tsuru, and Research Associate Wenjie Tang. Representatives from ERIA Group also joined the meeting.
The Japanese team will conduct an initial assessment of Palawan’s renewable energy potential, review existing energy infrastructure, and consult with key stakeholders as part of preparations for future clean energy initiatives.
“Magkakaroon ng initial assessment ng renewable energy potential, pagsusuri sa umiiral na imprastraktura ng enerhiya, at pakikipag-ugnayan sa mga pangunahing stakeholder bilang paghahanda sa mga susunod na clean energy initiatives sa pagtatayo ng mga renewable microgrids sa mga dakong ating ipapanukala sa kanila,” Maminta said.
He added that MRI and ERIA emphasized the need to identify suitable project sites before technical studies and funding preparations can proceed.
“Ayon naman sa MRI at ERIA, kailangang matukoy na ang mga angkop na lugar para sa proyekto, para sa inisyal na pag-aaral at upang masimulan nila ang mga teknikal na kailangan kasama ang mga pondong gagamitin upang magawa ang mga proyektong renewable energy at microgrid projects sa mga target na komunidad,” he added.
He welcomed the initiative and expressed support for the project, saying the province is prepared to work with its Japanese partners to help bring sustainable electricity solutions to underserved communities in Palawan.
