MLQU taps Propmech for solar power installation

MANILA, Philippines - Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU) will soon join other universities in Manila using solar power to reduce its electricity bill after it signed an agreement with the Department of Energy and solar photovoltaic (PV) system provider Propmech Corp. last month to install solar PV net-metering facilities in its Manila campus.

Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho L. Petilla lauded the management of MLQU for taking part in the department’s goal to double the country’s total renewable energy (RE) installation of 5,521 megawatts (MW) by encouraging schools to use solar PV systems. Propmech Corp. will handle the installation, operation, monitoring and evaluation of MLQU’s solar PV system. 

Customers with net-metering facilities can trim their electricity bills. Net-metering is the first non-fiscal mechanism under Republic Act 9513 that allows customers with RE facilities to export their system’s excess energy back to the distribution utility’s distribution system. 

Among the pilot schools that will have solar PV systems under the DOE program are Mapua Institute of Technology and La Consolacion College both located in Manila. 

DOE will install up to 100 kw roof-mounted solar PV systems in these schools to reduce their power costs. The agency plans to put rooftop solar panels in all private schools in Metro Manila by next year.  “We hope suppliers will continue to install more panels in this manner,” Petilla said. He added that schools should also welcome RE suppliers because it is a win-win situation for everybody.

Propmech Corp. is involved in numerous milestone RE projects in the country, including the Asian Development Bank’s roof-mounted solar power plant, the rural electrification program of the Philippine government, and Manila Electric Company’s solar PV center. 

The company provides free consultation and recommendation to clients on what solar PV systems can give them the best return in investment and energy production. For inquiries, visit www.propmech.com.