School gets solar power

CEBU, Philippines — One school will soon be able to transition to clean and renewable energy after the Aboitiz Infra Capital Cebu Airport Corp. (AICCAC) launched the Solar Scholars program at the Pangan-an Elementary School in Lapu-Lapu City.

According to AICCAC, the private operator of Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the Solar Scholars program is part of Aurora PH, the flagship initiative of the Aboitiz Foundation under its Future Leaders education pillar.

In collaboration with the Department of Education’s Last Mile Schools initiative, the program aims to empower students in remote and off-grid areas by providing access to renewable energy, connectivity, and digital tools.

With renewable energy solutions, schools like the Pangan-an Elementary School can reallocate savings from reduced energy costs into other vital educational investments. This is also seen to enhance the learning environment and resources available to students and educators alike.

Two state-of-the-art solar power systems were installed by A+ Power Services, Inc. at Pangan-an Elementary and High School. Each 5.5kW solar power system is equipped with 10 550kWp solar panels, a Losun 5kW inverter, and a Losun 51.2V 100AH battery. These systems are designed to provide reliable renewable energy, enabling the schools to reduce operational costs.

“This program is a source of hope for children in remote areas. With the AuroraPH program, we’re bringing solar power, internet, and technology to schools in far-flung parts of the country. This helps improve learning, bridge the digital gap, and prepare students for the future. We started in 2024 with 11 schools, and now over 2,000 students and teachers are benefiting,” said Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar.

She added that soon they will be connecting more schools in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao as their goal is to reach 300 schools across the country.

“Education is key to a better future, and through AuroraPH, we’re giving students and teachers the tools they need to succeed,” she said.

This recent project is part of the foundation’s goal to support 300 remote schools and help bridge the education gap in areas that are hard to reach or face challenges.

“Through Solar Scholars, we are not only addressing the immediate needs of schools in remote areas but also investing in a sustainable future for education. This initiative underscores our commitment to empowering communities through renewable energy and innovation,” says AICCAC deputy chief operations officer Aldwin Uy.

AICCAC added that the successful launch of the Solar Scholars program marks a significant step forward in supporting the Department of Education’s Last Mile Schools initiative. (CEBU NEWS)