Cebu City and DOE Launch Ambitious Green Energy Initiative to Reduce Government Expenses
The Cebu City Government has entered into a strategic partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE) to significantly lower electricity and fuel costs for City-owned facilities, establishing the city as a regional leader in sustainable governance practices. This collaborative effort, formalized through a memorandum of agreement (MOA), spans five years and aims to achieve a 10 percent reduction in overall energy consumption by integrating advanced green technologies into municipal operations.
Council Approval and Key Advocates Drive the Initiative
On Monday, February 23, 2026, the City Council approved a resolution, authored by Councilors Dave Tumulak and Joel Garganera, granting Mayor Nestor Archival the authority to execute the agreement with the DOE. Mayor Archival, a long-time proponent of renewable energy, previously championed City Ordinance 2772, which institutionalized the use of solar power in City operations, underscoring his commitment to environmental sustainability.
Implementation of the "Solar Solutions for Government" Program
Under the program titled "Solar Solutions for Government: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in Public Buildings," Cebu City will deploy a range of eco-friendly technologies. These include the installation of solar photovoltaic systems, energy-efficient LED lighting, inverter-type air conditioners, and electric vehicle charging stations across various public facilities. This comprehensive approach is designed to tackle the City's substantial annual power bill, which amounts to approximately P200 million.
Roles and Responsibilities in the Partnership
The DOE will provide crucial technical support, conduct detailed energy audits, and lead a technical working group to oversee the implementation process. In return, Cebu City will appoint a dedicated energy efficiency officer, identify suitable installation sites, and develop a comprehensive Local Energy Efficiency and Conservation Plan to ensure long-term success.
Funding and Maintenance Strategies
Initial assessments for the project will be funded by the DOE, while long-term maintenance and operational costs will be managed through separate agreements with private partners. This funding model aims to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of the initiative without placing undue financial burden on the City's resources.
Early Successes and Future Expansion Plans
Cebu City has already demonstrated the effectiveness of this model with the inauguration of a 300-kilowatt solar system at the Department of General Services Complex at the South Road Properties on August 14, 2025. This system is projected to reduce the facility's power costs by an impressive 70 percent. Looking ahead, the Archival administration plans to expand these efforts by installing a 700-kilowatt solar system at the Legislative Building and transforming the Cebu City Public Library into a fully functional "solar library," further cementing the city's commitment to renewable energy and cost savings.
