Ilocos Norte Launches First LGU-Led Solar Rooftop Program

The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, in partnership with ACEN Corporation and GCash, has launched the Ilocos Norte Solar Rooftop Campaign—the first local government-led initiative in the Philippines designed to enable households to adopt solar energy through accessible financing and net metering.

Officials and partners sign the agreement launching Ilocos Norte’s residential solar rooftop campaign. (Photo: ACEN Facebook)

The program brings together government, financing partners, renewable energy providers, and key enablers, including Solaric Philippines and the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative, to deliver an integrated model for residential solar adoption.

At a time of rising energy costs and supply concerns, the initiative offers households a pathway to reduce electricity expenses while contributing to the country’s clean energy transition.

The program brings together government, financing partners, renewable energy providers, and key enablers, including Solaric Philippines and the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative, to deliver an integrated model for residential solar adoption.

At a time of rising energy costs and supply concerns, the initiative offers households a pathway to reduce electricity expenses while contributing to the country’s clean energy transition.

“This initiative reflects how strong public-private collaboration can bring renewable energy directly to communities,” said ACEN CEO, Eric Francia.

The campaign builds on Ilocos Norte’s legacy as a renewable energy hub and shifts focus toward household-level adoption.

Through the program, households can install solar rooftop systems using flexible financing options without traditional collateral. Financing is provided by Fuse Financing Inc., offering digital applications and installment payments via GGives, with terms ranging from three to ten years and starting at around ₱1,300 per month.

Participants can also benefit from net metering through INEC, allowing excess electricity to be exported to the grid in exchange for bill credits.

“This initiative reaffirms Ilocos Norte’s status as a renewable energy leader,” said Cecilia Araneta-Marcos.

The program will initially prioritize households consuming at least 4 kWh per day and will roll out in pilot areas including Laoag City, Dingras, and Pagudpud.

The campaign was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed on March 16 at the Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol, marking the start of its implementation phase.