Elenita Ompad, Again Philippines Information president, sees a bright future for their solar panel business with high-end subdivision owners like those in Maria Luisa shifting to clean energy. (CONTRIBUTED).
WHILE Filipinos are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of harnessing renewable energy such as solar power, many are still kept from its true potential due to relatively higher prices of technology.
To address this gap, Again Philippines Information (API) president Elenita Ompad called on the government to offer loan systems for those who are interested in shifting to clean and renewable energy.
“If our government can facilitate easy requirements, then it will be the best (way) for businesses like ours to take off,” she said.
Pag-ibig, for instance, provides loans for renewable energy but Ompad said they aren’t “that friendly” yet.
She said the Development Bank of the Philippines offers similar loans, but for those intending to build solar farms and not for homeowners.
API of the Again Group of Companies is a Japan-based manufacturer and distributor of solar panels as well as solar-powered lamps.
The company, which was established in Japan in 2009, only started operations in the country on Mactan Island, Cebu in September last year.
The firm has also operations in South Korea and the United Arab Emirates.
Banking on the increasing awareness of Filipinos on renewable energy, Ompad said API sees bright prospects for their company here.
In Cebu City, she said they already have captured markets among high-end subdivisions such as Maria Luisa Village. They also serve corporate and commercial clients.
Just recently, API installed a 5-kilowatt solar power system at a dormitory along Urgello Street in Cebu City.
For P45,000, homeowners can have a 250-watt solar panel installed in their homes, allowing them to save up to P2,000 on electricity bills every month.
“This includes everything. From installation of panels, connecting it to the grid, and after-sales service of 25 years,” said Ompad.
Ompad said clients can see a return of investments within six years.
API chief executive officer Masato Nishiyama said not only will solar power help consumers save on money, but it is also safe for the environment.