CATARMAN, Northern Samar — In support of Energy Regulations No. 1-94 (ER 194), the provincial government of Northern Samar is facilitating seven renewable energy projects to ensure that host communities of power plants and energy projects receive a share of the financial benefits.
Accordingly, the policy works by requiring power-generating companies (GenCos) to allocate a portion of their electricity sales—specifically one centavo for every kilowatt-hour (₱0.01/kWh) to the local government units (LGUs) where their facilities are located.
Currently, Northern Samar is implementing support programs that facilitate renewable energy sources, among them the Lihangin Wind Energy Corporation in San Isidro; Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners in Bobon, Catarman, Mondragon, San Roque, Pambujan and Laoang; Energies Philippines Incorporated in Capul; Envision & Vivant in Lavezares and Allen; Ranyag Tech also in Bobon; and EB Tech Hydroelectric Power Project and Gemini Wind Energy Corporation both in San Isidro.
The funds for these initiatives are distributed into three main accounts: 50 percent for the Electrification Fund, which is used to provide power to un-electrified households; 25 percent for the Development and Livelihood Fund to support various community projects; and the remaining 25 percent for the Reforestation, Watershed Management, Health and Environment Enhancement Fund, which addresses environmental and health concerns.
The funds are remitted directly to the host communities’ trust accounts, allowing them to finance their own development projects based on an Annual Work Program they submit and get approved.
This system promotes collaboration between energy companies and their host communities, ensuring a portion of the profits from the country’s energy production goes back to the people who bear the direct impact of these facilities.