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| (Image Source: Journal Online/Center For Energy, Ecology, And Development/De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) took a significant step toward sustainability by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED) last March 19, 2025. This agreement marks DLSL’s commitment to the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge, an ambitious initiative aimed at accelerating the shift to renewable energy in the Philippines. Launched in July 2024, the challenge envisions the installation of 10 million solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftop systems nationwide. It is a call to action for individuals, businesses, schools, churches, government agencies, and various organizations to embrace renewable energy and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
CEED, as one of the co-convenors of the challenge, has been at the forefront of this movement. The organization has long advocated for the transition to renewable energy, emphasizing its accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential to create green jobs. DLSL’s decision to join the challenge underscores the critical role that educational institutions play in shaping energy-conscious communities and promoting sustainability. The partnership between DLSL and CEED is built on the following shared goals:
• Contributing to the renewable energy transition by increasing awareness and participation
• Encouraging investment in solar rooftop PV systems to harness the Philippines' immense renewable energy potential
• Advocating for policy reforms that support distributed renewable energy initiatives
• Celebrating ongoing and upcoming efforts in advancing solar energy adoption
DLSL’s home province of Batangas is a focal point of fossil fuel development in the country, despite its vast potential for renewable energy. This partnership is expected to strengthen the push for clean and reliable energy alternatives, paving the way for widespread solar adoption in the region. On a bigger picture, per Climate Analytics research in 2023 commissioned by CEED, the Philippines has an estimated 1,200 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy potential, yet much of this remains untapped. A significant portion of this potential — 91 GW — can be sourced from solar rooftops alone. In contrast, the current total power capacity of all power plants in the country is only 28 GW, highlighting the vast opportunity that solar energy presents. The 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge seeks to harness this potential by promoting distributed renewable energy systems that directly benefit households, institutions, and communities.
The role of educational institutions like DLSL is crucial in democratizing energy access. Dr. Teodosia Merlin Suarez of DLSL highlighted this point, sharing that education must play a pivotal role in shaping an energy-conscious society. By integrating sustainability and renewable energy discussions into academic curricula and community programs, schools can help bridge the knowledge gap and inspire more people to take action. CEED Deputy Executive Director Avril De Torres echoed this sentiment, stating, “This partnership with DLSL is exciting. With this challenge, we see how many are willing to welcome renewable energy. This challenge is for and by every Filipino — DLSL is one of the many examples of this.” Through DLSL’s Community Involvement Office, the institution takes up the challenge, which is not just about installing solar panels — it is about empowering people with knowledge, resources, and the ability to take control of their energy needs. Through collaboration, innovation, and commitment, De La Salle Lipa hopes to do its share to support the Philippines transition toward a future where renewable energy is the norm rather than the exception.
To know more about DLSL’s sustainability efforts, visit https://www.dlsl.edu.ph/page/about-dlsl/mission-vision/sustainability. To learn more about the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge through its website, visit 10msolarroofs.ph.
(With words by Dfezie Tipan, De La Salle Lipa)
