The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Ilocos Region has been assisting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Pangasinan in the adoption of renewable energy in their production through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

In a statement on Monday, DOST Pangasinan director Arnold Santos said through the program, MSMEs can borrow funds for the procurement of solar panels.

“Ito ay parang soft loan, no interest, no collateral, at may grace period, payable for three years (It is like a soft loan, no interest, no collateral, and there is grace period, payable for three years),” he said.

Santos said SETUP aims to provide to the MSMEs interventions such as technologies or equipment, and technical assistance among others to address their problem in production.

“Our goal is to ensure that these innovations translate into long-term resilience for our MSMEs. Through regular monitoring of energy outputs and operational efficiency, we ensure that these interventions continue to perform at peak capacity, helping our local entrepreneurs remain competitive,” he added.

There are nine SETUP-assisted firms across the province that have integrated solar power systems into their operations, according to DOST.

Among them is the DL Hatchery and Balut Industry that has installed a 15-kilowatt (kW) solar panel system, reducing its annual electricity consumption by 53.2 percent, as well as R&E Poultry Farm with 43.07 percent reduction in energy use, while Rillera Farm reported 90 percent drop in monthly electricity expenses.

Gerrilaide Farm reduced its energy costs by 78.3 percent, while Moon Light Farm also reported a 35-percent decrease in electricity consumption following the full installation and operation of its solar technology.

“Early adopters such as JPD Poultry Farm (formerly Tabrilla Poultry Farm) and Sunny View Farm continue to demonstrate sustained benefits, consistently achieving up to 50 percent efficiency gains per production cycle since adopting solar systems in 2016 and 2017, respectively. These long-term results affirm that solar integration is not only cost-effective but also a durable, high-value investment for agricultural productivity,” the DOST said.

Unicolor Printing Press recorded a 60.82-percent reduction in annual electricity consumption after investing in solar technology.

“Before, we paid approximately PHP60,000 per month; now, our lowest bills range from zero to PHP2,000,” shared owner Teodora Dar. “We are very thankful for these interventions, which have helped us reduce production costs and operate without worrying about power interruptions.” (PNA)