Let there be light: Agusan school taps solar energy

MANILA, Philippines — The sun still extends its rays to this far-flung school, now powered by solar energy.

Thanks to renewable energy firm Cost Plus, and the joint initiative of the Department of Education (DepEd) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA), Datu Saldong Domino Elementary School in Agusan del Norte is now energized.

Considered a “last-mile school,” the facility had been in the dark for so long—without electricity and internet.

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“Access to electricity and internet is no longer a luxury—it’s foundational for modern education. We’re proud to support DepEd’s vision by delivering clean, resilient solar energy that empowers teachers and students,” says Anand Mahtani, president of Cost Plus, the exclusive distributor-manufacturer of Kidlat EV, a company focused on providing solar power solutions, electric mobility and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Aside from a solar energy system, the elementary school now also has an energy storage.

According to Cost Plus, the school is now managing a standalone solar photovoltaic system designed specifically for off-grid environments. This promises reliable electricity, not dependent on the more expensive diesel generators.

To ensure seamless operation and self-sufficiency, local school personnel and community members were trained in system monitoring and maintenance.

DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara also visited the school, saying the project not only helps students but also empowers the community.

“Every child deserves quality education, and today, electricity brings us closer to that goal. This partnership demonstrates how collaborative innovation can extend quality education to learners everywhere,” Angara says.

This came as DepEd and Nea teamed up last February to electrify schools in off-grid areas.

Angara previously said around 1,500 public schools needed access to electricity.

(2025/07/06-02:00)