UN Division for Sustainable Development

Case Study Detail Record

Organization type:	Government

Name of Ministry/Agency:

Country:	United States of America

Initiative Title:	The Alliance for Mindanao Off-Grid Renewable Energy

Internet links:

Scope:	National: - Philippines

Status:	Completed

Timeframe:	Start: End:

Lead Institution:	U.S. Department of Energy

Stakeholders/Partners:	Government of the Republic of the Philippines Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Mirant Philippines

Relevent issues:	- Environmental Management

Objectives/Challenges:

To electrify remote communities of conflict-affected areas of Mindanao to light homes and provide opportunities for economic development that can contribute to achieving peace.

Lessons Learned:

Energy is fundamental to economic growth, and a catalyst for alleviating poverty in the Philippines. This is especially true in conflict areas such as Mindanao, where about 60% of the population live below the poverty threshold.

Policy Options:

The initiative is intended to strengthen the capability of the communities to operate, maintain and expand renewable energy systems

Summary:

In the Philippines, USAID is developing off-grid renewable energy systems in 170 remote rural communities in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Through solar-powered battery charging stations and individual batteries for households and public facilities, residents are now saving 70% each month in what they previously spent on kerosene for light. Residents now have increased opportunities for productive activities. As of June 2003, over 1,200 households were electrified with solar battery charging stations, and 40 barangay associations and Operations and Maintenance Fund mechanisms were established. Key features of programme: Supports strong community participation in designing and operating renewable energy systems. Results achieved and known impacts: The programme seeks to electrify at least 160 rural barangays heavily populated with former rebel soldiers. As of June 2003, over 1,200 households were electrified with solar battery charging stations, and 40 barangay associations and Operations and Maintenance Fund mechanisms were established. Sustainability, scalability, and transferability: The effort is strengthening the capacity of communities to operate, maintain, and expand the renewable energy systems. In addition, it is establishing Operation and Maintenance Funds for each community, to serve as an efficient system to collect community funds to cover expenses and ensure sustainable operations.