The Social Security System (SSS) is planning to install solar panels in its offices to save on electricity expenses and to promote the use of renewable energy.
In a news release on Tuesday, SSS president and chief executive officer Rolando Ledesma Macasaet said the agency aims to install 445 solar panels with a combined 200 kilowatts peak at its main office in Quezon City.
“Upon the completion of this project, we estimate to generate an average of around 18,872 kilowatt-hours per month, equating to a monthly savings of PHP200,798.08 and to reduce our carbon footprint by 9.57 tons, equivalent to planting 57.4 trees,” he said.
This project is the agency’s response to Executive Order No. 14 issued by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Jan. 27, which approves and adopts the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) for 2023-2028.
The plan incorporates the 8-point Socioeconomic Agenda of the Marcos administration in the lowering of energy costs and promoting renewable energy sources.
Apart from its main office, the agency is also planning to install solar panels in SSS-owned branches nationwide, especially in areas that experience frequent power outages and charge higher cost of electric power.
“As we continue to pursue the provision of meaningful social security protection to the current and future generations of SSS members and their families and the improvement of our services, we will also adopt and implement measures to strengthen the SSS fund through prudent spending and operational efficiency, while advocating for the protection of the environment,” Macasaet said.
He added the SSS is committed to managing and minimizing the environmental impact of its operations.
It has initiated several eco-friendly and cost-effective efforts in the past such as digitalizing its processes through its online portals, My.SSS and SSS mobile app, which provide members with simpler, faster and more convenient modes of fulfilling their transactions while reducing carbon footprint through paperless processing and strict compliance to green procurement.
Under its National Energy Efficiency Program and Conservation Program in Government Buildings, the Department of Energy recognized the SSS as one of the highest energy efficient government offices with a rating of 94 percent from 2007 to 2009. (PNA)
