A community-driven renewable energy project was launched that aims to provide electricity to around 150 households on Matabas Island in Brgy. Molocaboc, Sagay City, alongside livelihood and energy-based programs designed to benefit women and strengthen island resilience.
The Negrosanon Initiative for Climate and the Environment (NICE) formally launched the “REPower Matabas” project at the State University of Northern Negros Hotel, coinciding with the celebration of International Clean Energy Day on Monday, Jan. 26.
NICE Secretary General Joshua Villalobos said the launch underscores that renewable energy should serve communities that have long been excluded from reliable electricity, stressing that clean energy must benefit people and not only large corporations.
Project Manager John Dyrick Dormis said the planned electrification of roughly 150 homes is only the first step, as the project also envisions solar-powered street lights for community security, a charging station to support education, and a solar-powered desalination facility to provide access to safe drinking water.
Dormis said these components are designed to directly address the realities of Matabas Island, particularly energy poverty, disaster vulnerability, and limited livelihood opportunities.
The project also includes women-led livelihood initiatives, with the planned charging station and desalination facility to be managed by local women’s groups to create income opportunities while ensuring community ownership of the energy systems.
Merly Cabucos, a member of the Matabas Island women’s association, said the project brings hope to residents who have long relied on limited and costly energy sources, adding that access to electricity will improve daily life, communication, and water access once fully implemented.
City Consultant Vincent Rivera said the project targets an island community of about 700 residents who remain energy-poor, noting that the initiative is intended to bring long-term, sustainable power solutions to one of Sagay City’s far-flung areas rather than short-term fixes.
Board Member Arthur Christopher Marañon said the initiative could serve as a model for other island communities, noting that successful implementation may encourage similar projects across the province and beyond.
The REPower Matabas project is supported by the Honnold Foundation, the City of Sagay, the Province of Negros Occidental, DepEd, the Diocese of San Carlos, and other partners, as stakeholders push for a just energy transition that delivers power, dignity, and opportunity to underserved island communities.
During the launch, the stakeholders and residents of Matabas had a commitment signing which aims to advance clean, reliable, and sustainable energy “as a foundation for inclusive development, community resilience, and climate action.*