With 3.6% of the world’s electricity coming from solar energy, it’s one of the most popular renewable sources. Fortunately, different countries are already taking action to generate more solar energy. The Philippines, for instance, generates almost half (47%) of its energy from renewable sources. 

In recent years, the world has been facing a renewable energy crisis. Using fossil fuels has led to a rise in global warming, climate change, and a depletion of our natural resources. That is why corporations and governments are turning to solar farms as solutions. 

With how important solar farms are to humanity’s future, it helps to learn more about them and how they work. Read the infographic below to discover the science behind solar farms.

What are Solar Farms? 

Solar farms, also called solar power stations or solar parks, are massive collections of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. You may think of it as larger-scale solar-powered microgrids. They operate similarly to fossil fuel power plants, which generate enormous energy for businesses and communities—except they’re far more sustainable and environmentally friendly. 

Electricity produced by solar farms ranges from 1 megawatt (MW) to 800 MW. Take India’s Bhadla Solar Park, for instance. It’s 5,700 hectares and generates enough power for 4.5 million homes—2,250 MW or 2.25 gigawatts (GW)—making it the largest solar farm on the planet. 

Solar farm owners may need a power purchase agreement before building their solar farms. 

5 Types of Solar Farms 

According to typical solar farm installation metrics, companies will need at least one hectare per one-megawatt installation. There are generally five types of solar farms, each occupying space differently and serving unique purposes. 

Of course, no type is better than the other; it depends on the owner’s purpose for building their solar farms. 

1. Ground-mounted solar farms

Ground-mounted solar farms are a popular option for people who want to slowly build their solar farms or begin using solar panels at home. They’re installed directly on the land, typically in large fields or yards. The caveat of ground-mounted solar farms is that they tend to be costly because of the labor costs of preparing the land area for the panels. 

2. Rooftop solar farms

If owners have no land space for ground-mounted solar farms, rooftop solar farms can be a similarly viable solution to their renewable energy concerns. They’re more cost-effective than building an entirely new structure just for solar power generation, and they don’t require clearing land or digging holes. 

3. Floating solar farms

Floating solar farms are a new and innovative way to provide electricity to people. Without being on land, they can be positioned over the surface of a lake, industrial pond, or reservoir.

Floating solar farms are an ideal solution for corporations that can’t afford to lose land space. They can generate more electricity when combined with ground-mounted solar farms. One of the largest floating solar farms in the world is the 1.2-GW Saemangeum Floating Solar Power Project off the coast of South Korea. 

4. Utility-scale solar farms

Utility-scale solar farms are ideal for industrial solutions because these owners sell their electricity to wholesale buyers rather than individual consumers. 

Most utility-scale solar farms use concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP) technology, which uses mirrors to reflect sunlight into heat-transferring liquid. The liquid boils, creating steam, which spins a turbine and generates electricity. 

Plenty of utility-scale solar farms also provide solar energy storage services, allowing them to provide electricity during the evening. 

5. Community solar farms

Community solar farms are shared spaces. They allow members of a community or municipality who might not have room for their own solar panels to access renewable energy by subscribing to the services of a solar farm.

Although many different types of solar farms exist, they all fundamentally work the same. 

How Do Solar Farms Work? 

How do solar farms generate electricity? Sunlight is converted into electricity by solar farms’ solar panels, which people may then use to run their homes, places of business, and machinery. Knowing how the process works will help you decide whether or not investing in a solar farm makes sense for you if you’re thinking about doing so. 

1. Photovoltaic cells (PV) absorb sunlight

Solar farms are powered by tiny photovoltaic cells or solar cells. These cells are typically made of silicon and absorb photons from sunlight to transform them into usable electricity in a process called the photovoltaic effect, discovered by Edmond Becquerel in 1839.

PV cells are made of two semiconductors stacked on top of each other. One side has a negative charge because it has many electrons; the other is positive and lacks electrons. The photons from the sun’s light knock electrons loose from the top layer, attracting them to the semiconductor below. 

When electrons move, they create a current that semiconductors push out of the PV cell. An electrical load captures the energy of this current. Electrons exit the semiconductor layer, pass through the electric load, and then return to the PV cell to restart the cycle. 

2. Solar panels spread energy 

The solar panel, housed in a metal frame that covers the solar cells in glass, provides space for the numerous connected PV cells to direct their electrical current through wires. The electrons’ energy is direct current (DC) electricity, which then surges toward the panel’s wiring, flowing toward inverter and transformer systems.

3. Inverters and transformers convert electricity 

Solar energy from the PV cells flows toward inverters and transformers, which receive DC and output AC. After, a transformer moderates and adjusts the voltage of the outgoing AC. 

4. Inverters and transformers transfer the energy to the grid

After the inverters convert the electrical current from DC to AC and transformers adjust the voltage, the electricity is ready for regular consumption. Solar farms have high-voltage power lines that transmit the electricity to the grid, making it available to the public.

Solar farms use a process that’s straightforward, scientific, and effective. As you may have noticed, the process of solar farms is complex. It involves many parts—parts you’ll need to familiarize yourself with to understand how solar farms work and to help you diagnose solar panel problems.  

Components of Solar Farms

Solar farms have multiple components that produce clean, renewable energy. You may work with solar panel installation experts to customize your farm to your unique needs, but here are some basic parts you should include in every installation. 

1. Solar panels

Solar panels contain many PV cells that capture, absorb, and transform sunlight into usable electricity. While solar panels for homes typically come in a monocrystalline or polycrystalline material, most business establishments use thin-film solar cells (TFSCs). These TFSCs are lightweight, flexible, and aesthetically pleasing, ideal for different applications a business needs. 

2. Mounting systems

The mounting system is one of the most important factors when buying solar panels. It must be durable enough to withstand the solar farms’ environment, such as during a typhoon. 

There are two main types of mounting systems: fixed and tracking. As the name implies, fixed mounting systems are stationary and can’t be moved by the user. The placement and direction of the solar panel are important considerations since you can’t move it easily after installation.

Tracking mounting systems allow you to adjust your solar panels horizontally and vertically to aim them at the sun. They’re a more effective way to get energy but also more expensive.

 3. Inverters and transformers

The inverter and transformer are two components that are vital to the distribution of electricity from panels to people. The inverter converts the incoming DC electricity, which most consumer electronics require, into 240 volts of AC. The transformer gives operators control of how much voltage the outputting ACs are. 

4. Wiring and cables

Solar wires, either single or stranded, allow renewable energy to travel around the solar panel system. They’re from the PV cells to the inverters and transformers. Some solar farms use copper and aluminum wiring. 

Copper wire has excellent conductivity, allowing it to carry more electrical current than aluminum. However, aluminum wires are often more affordable and rigid than copper wires. 

On the other hand, solar cables are built to be much more durable and withstand different weather conditions and high temperatures. Solar farm owners primarily use these to connect solar panels to power grids.

5. Monitoring systems

Monitoring systems like solar power meters are crucial, allowing you to see how much energy your farm produces. They’re great with a solar power calculator to help you determine how much energy the farm has. 

Monitoring systems also allow you to gauge your solar panel efficiency and identify problems with the system, such as if it produces significantly less electricity than usual. 

You’ll need to monitor how much solar energy the solar farms produce to take advantage of net metering, where you can sell the excess solar power back to the grid and reduce your next electricity bill. 

These solar farm components work together to provide owners with multiple advantages.

Advantages of Solar Farms

Solar farms are a significant investment. Suppose you’d have to spend PHP25,000 for a single panel, but the solar farm you want to create requires roughly 100 panels. The farm’s total cost would be PHP 2,500,000—a significant price you wouldn’t want to spend too quickly. 

Before you agree to pay such a large sum, you need to get a clear sense of the advantages of going solar and how you might be able to calculate its return on investment (ROI).

1. Generates a renewable energy source

The Earth’s fossil fuels have taken centuries to form. Once they run out, people will need to find other energy sources. Solar energy is the most abundant energy available, 10,000 times more than people need. It’s a great way to future-proof your business. 

2. Reduces carbon footprint

The only way to use non-renewable energy sources like oil and gas is to burn them. Burning them emits greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, which could harm the environment and accelerate climate change. 

A renewable energy source that doesn’t release greenhouse gases is solar energy. Unlike fossil fuels, solar farms don’t require a burning process to produce electricity. It’s one of the biggest environmental benefits, and why it’s also known as clean energy.

3. Minimizes costs

The sun is the most abundant source of energy on the planet. Harnessing its power with solar farms will allow people to save on their electricity bills. 

The government is pushing to make establishments more sustainable, so many offer solar incentives to those who’ve switched to solar power. These benefits include cash incentives and tax credits. The cost-effectiveness of a solar panel system makes it a viable investment for many industries, from car manufacturing plants to agricultural farms.

4. Requires low maintenance

Although maintaining solar panels is a simple process, there’s a lot of labor involved in keeping solar panels functional. Hosing out debris, cleaning them with soap, and wiping them dry with a clean cloth are usually enough to keep the solar panels in good shape. 

However, since solar farms have hundreds of solar panels, hiring professionals to maintain them properly benefits you.

5. Provides for rural areas

In some countries, like the Philippines, rural areas affected by typhoons can’t receive enough electricity to keep their lives running smoothly. Of the many advantages of solar farms, one of the most important is that they only require sunlight to remain operational and provide electricity to whoever needs it.

Reap the Benefits of Solar Farms

Solar farms will be crucial as the Philippines and the world rely more heavily on renewable energy. They’re cost-effective solutions that provide much-needed clean energy to communities and corporations. 

If you’re looking to invest in solar farms, it’s important to understand how they work. To get started, you can work with solar energy experts to help you decide where and how to install your solar farms best. 

SolarNRG has more than two decades of solar panel installation experience for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Contact us today to learn how we can help you begin harnessing the sun’s energy to energize your business.

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Several factors can affect your energy consumption. The weather, the number of people living in your home, and how many devices and appliances you use all contribute to high electrical consumption. With these aspects, it’s best to consider alternative ways to help lessen that.

Here are some tips on how to lower your electric bill at home.

Why It’s Important to Lower Your Electric Bill

A high electric bill means high electricity consumption, adversely affecting the environment. In 2021, the Philippines’ primary energy source was coal, at 47.6%, with 76% of total electricity production coming from fossil fuels. 

Many greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere by fossil fuels. Natural gas is pretty great, but even if power plants use it, it’s still a problem. Natural gas mainly comprises methane, which traps 25 times more heat than carbon dioxide. That means you still contribute to climate change when using natural gas to power your home or business.

More than contributing to global warming, fossil fuels also threaten your health. Inhaling these emissions can cause asthma, Alzheimer’s, stroke, and other disorders. Absenteeism is also linked to poor health due to fossil fuels, resulting in 1.8 billion days of work absences worldwide.

A new study found that air pollution is causing around 3.6 million premature deaths worldwide annually, and 27,000 are in the Philippines. It’s also leading to annual economic losses of up to 1.9% of the country’s GDP. 

Lowering your electric bill means power plants use fewer fossil fuels, which keeps you and others healthy. It also helps keep the environment clean and helps to prevent global warming from becoming a threat.

7 Tips on How to Lower Your Electric Bill at Home

Here are some ways to reduce your energy consumption and monthly electric dues.

1. Conduct an energy audit

You or a professional can conduct an energy audit to understand better how much electricity you consume. An expert can identify areas where you’re using excess energy and suggest ways to reduce your consumption. 

If you’re doing this yourself, an online auditing tool or an app can help you find air leaks, outdated insulation, or old appliances. You can also look up the models of all the devices and appliances in your home and see how many kilowatts they use per hour.

Once you get the audit results, you can plan upgrades, replacements, or fixes to lower your electric bill.

2. Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances

Older appliances could use up to 28% more energy than necessary. If you have any older than 10 years old, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. 

If you’re heating leftovers or living alone, use a toaster oven or microwave. These appliances use less electricity than your stove or oven. Look for devices labeled with ENERGY STAR. These appliances use less energy than their traditional counterparts, which translates to savings on your electricity bill.

Prioritize your home’s largest gadgets, like washing machines, TV, and fridge.

3. Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use

Did you know that electronics and appliances use energy even when turned off? This energy usage is known as “phantom” or “vampire” energy. While it’s not a lot of power, leaving them plugged in or on standby for more than 20 hours will compound and reflect on your bill.

Phantom energy devices include many things you use daily, like chargers for your phone or laptop, security cameras, microwaves, TVs, monitors, and printers. Some appliances—like the microwave or security cameras—need to stay plugged in to be useful, so it’s best to turn to the other gadgets to save power.

One way to prevent excess consumption is by unplugging vampire electronics when you’re not using them. Use a power strip to make this easier, so you can turn off several devices with one switch.

4. Consider installing solar panels

Solar panels for your home are an excellent way to reduce or prevent using electricity that uses fossil fuels. Not only can this lower your monthly electric bill, but it can also provide a cleaner energy source for your home. 

Solar energy is a great way to lessen your carbon footprint because it’s completely renewable and emits no harmful gases. Another benefit is net metering, a billing process that credits you if you produce more power than you consume.

Installing solar panels can increase the value of your property by an average of 4.1%. If you want to install solar panels for your home, check your area’s regulations. Look up a solar calculator to see how much energy you can save.

5. Use LED lightbulbs

The purchase of LED bulbs is highly recommended. They use around 75% less energy and last 25% longer than traditional bulbs, but they can be a bit more expensive upfront. However, that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth the investment in the long run. 

One of the best things about LEDs is that they come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. You can find the right match for any area in your home, whether you need a dimmable bulb or one that produces less heat than incandescent bulbs. 

6. Set your aircon on a timer

Depending on your chosen type, air conditioning units can cost a lot of money. Consider switching to a split-type window unit to make your air conditioner more energy-efficient. These cost around PHP 6.27 an hour, while inverter aircon consumes less electricity but still costs your household an average of PHP 4.00 an hour.

You can reduce your air conditioning costs by turning your aircon off after you sleep through a timer. This way, the AC will have time to cool your room down so that you can sleep comfortably before it turns itself off.

7. Wash clothes in cold water

If you use a washing machine often, consider using only cold water to wash your clothes. Washing machines use a lot of energy—around 75-90% of the total cost of running one is heating the water. Most fabrics are safe to wash cold, and certain stains, such as blood and sweat, are harder to remove if you use warm water.

Cold water can also reduce wrinkles in your clothes, which reduces costs because you avoid ironing.

Powering Up Your Savings

The greatest way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money is to purchase more energy-efficient devices, install solar panels, and do an energy audit. By doing so, you can keep the environment healthy while reducing your reliance on electricity produced with fossil fuels.

SolarNRG can help you reduce your energy usage through solar panel installation. Contact us today to learn about our services and how we can help you start living more sustainably.

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As solar energy proliferates in modern society, consumers expect prices to continue falling. Our World in Data shows a steady decrease in photovoltaic (PV) module costs from $2.15 per watt in 2010 to $0.27 in 2021. Moreover, according to Custom Market Insights, PV tech’s global market size reached $253.11 billion in 2022 from $110.42 billion only two years prior.

If you’re planning to buy a solar system, you might wonder how much you could save from a solar energy investment. Fortunately, this article will discuss how to calculate solar panel savings and solar power costs in the Philippines.

How to Calculate Solar Panel Costs in the Philippines

1.   Installation expenses

Installing inverters, racks, batteries, and solar panels may be costly, particularly if you have several panels. You can use our Solar Calculator to gauge your recommended system size and installation expenses. That said, it’s also essential to consider the following factors in determining the required number of solar panels.

·         Peak sun hours

It pertains to when panels receive maximum sustained sun exposure for efficient power generation. The solar system provider uses your location to determine how many panels you need based on available sunlight.

·         Panel output

Each panel’s power output depends on several factors, including the number of cells per panel, its efficiency, angle, peak sun hours, and surrounding shades. If the panels don’t provide adequate power, you may need to add more, which increases installation expenses.

2.   Maintenance expenses

Solar panels generally require little maintenance since rain and wind wash debris away. You should clean them at least twice a year to eliminate leaves and dirt obstructing the sun’s rays and reducing the system’s efficiency.

The good news is that solar systems are meant to be durable and withstand intense weather. However, contact your system provider for repair or replacement if you suspect that heavy wind, lightning, or flying debris has damaged them.

3.   Current energy usage

The number of solar panels also depends on your energy consumption. Browse your monthly electricity bill to determine how much power your household consumes. For a rough estimate, data from the Department of Energy found that Filipino households consumed around 34 billion kWh of electricity in 2021, roughly 311 kWh per capita annually.

How to Calculate Solar Panel Savings

1.   Solar system size

Again, your system size depends on your energy usage, the panels’ output, and available sunlight. More panels mean faster generation but at a higher upfront cost. Check out our solar power savings calculator for an overview of how much you can save with your solar system size.

2.   PHP per kWh

Next, identify your current electricity provider’s rate per kWh. Refer to your electricity bill or your electricity provider’s website for this figure. Meralco, the Philippines’ largest power distributor, charges around ₱11 per kWh, but rates vary depending on the provider, the country’s economic performance, generation charges, and other variables.

3.   Sun hours average per day

As mentioned, available sunlight determines the panels’ power generation efficiency. Since the Philippines sits close to the Earth’s equator, daylight generally lasts 12 hours daily. However, discounting minimal light during sunrise and sunset, not to mention the periods during typhoons and monsoons, you may have lower daily sun hours peaking at around four to five hours.

4.   Performance rate

A solar system’s performance rate is the amount of sunlight it converts into electricity. Your system’s performance rate depends on available sunlight and the panel’s age, type, and angle. For instance, panels that are 10% efficient output power equivalent to 10% of the sunlight hitting them. Ideally, the system should perform at more than 20%, around the average efficiency rating.

How to Determine Your Solar Panel Payback Period

The solar payback period is the time it takes for your solar energy investment to break even. For instance, if the system costs ₱25,000, the solar payback period lasts until you save ₱25,000 in electricity bills or make the same amount from incentives by net metering.

Calculate the solar payback period with the following formula:

(Total cost – rebates/incentives) ÷ Estimated savings/year = Solar Payback Period in years

Take your system’s total cost and subtract any rebates and incentives received from the purchase. Then, divide the difference by your annual estimated savings. The quotient is the years it would take to reach the amount you initially spent on the system.

Furthermore, the formula assumes your electricity rate per kWh won’t increase. Otherwise, expect higher savings and a shorter payback period.

Save More with Solar Panels

Purchasing a solar system is generally tough on your wallet, given the upfront costs. However, solar energy is an investment that significantly reduces electricity expenses and saves money in the long run. As manufacturing costs drop, solar technology will become even cheaper over the next few years.

Make informed decisions and consider expenses and possible savings to guide your solar energy investment. However, if you need help deciding if a solar system fits the bill, look no further than SolarNRG.

SolarNRG is the leading solar technology provider in the Philippines and overseas. We’ve helped households and businesses minimize electricity expenses by providing sustainable and budget-friendly solar systems.

Contact us to learn more about our Solar Panel Systems!

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Solar energy has a long history, dating from the 7th century BCE when early humans discovered magnification. Since then, civilizations worldwide have used their era’s technology to harness the energy provided by the sun. All these culminated in the invention of the first solar panels and the modern concept of solar power.

Scientists and researchers are still developing further use for solar energy today, with various companies creating useful gadgets using solar panels. From cars and Bluetooth speakers to mobile phone chargers, harnessing solar power is becoming more efficient for everyday use.

To understand how solar technology evolved over the centuries, you need to go on a journey into the history of solar panels and how early ancestors used the sun’s power in their time. Learn all about it in the infographic below.

The Complete History of Solar Energy

Many ancient civilizations used the sun’s power to improve their quality of life. These methods paved the way for many discoveries about solar power. Here’s the timeline of how solar energy evolved over the years.

Early years (7th century BCE to 1800s)

Using solar energy dates back as early as the 7th century BCE. Humans learned about the properties of magnification with glass materials and discovered they could light fires when using glass with sunlight.

The ancient Greek, Roman, and Chinese civilizations harnessed this method by using mirrors to light torches for their religious rituals. These were known as “burning mirrors.” In addition, some bathhouses built by the Romans used windows to direct sunlight into specific areas, known as sunrooms. The concept is still used in modern buildings today.

The Anasazi, ancestors to the Puebloans, utilized the sun’s heat by building south-facing homes on cliffs. The sunlight kept the communities warm during the winter.

1800s

There’s some debate among scientists on to whom they can attribute the invention of solar panels. Some argue for Edmond Becquerel, a 19-year-old French scientist who, in 1839, discovered the photovoltaic effect, which is the creation of a current through certain materials’ exposure to sunlight.

Further discoveries regarding solar energy took place in 1873. An electric engineer named Willoughby Smith found that the chemical element selenium was photoconductive, meaning that the material could conduct electricity when exposed to light.

William Grylls Adams and Richard Evans Day took this study further and discovered that selenium could create electricity when exposed to sunlight.

Historians argue that Adams and Day’s experiments led to the invention of solar cells by Charles Fritts. In 1883, Fritts used selenium wafers to create the first solar cell prototype, a glass box with a sheet of selenium sandwiched between a semi-transparent gold leaf and a layer of a metallic brass substrate.

Early 1900s

Research into solar energy continued into the 1900s.

In 1905, Albert Einstein contributed to the growth of solar research and quantum physics by publishing a paper that theorized the exposure of metals to light could “liberate” electrons. The piece won him the Nobel prize in 1921, and his theory became known as the Law of the Photoelectric Effect.

Solar power research took a step further in 1918 when Jan Czochralski, a Polish chemist, discovered a way to grow single-crystal silicon. Czochralski accidentally dipped the tip of his pen into a tin pot, resulting in a single-crystal strand of tin.

The method eventually became known as the Czochralski process, which companies use to produce single-crystal silicon in solar cells today.

Late 1900s (1960s to 1990s)

Silicon solar cells came into the picture in 1954 when David Chapin, Calvin Fuller, and Gerald Pearson created the first photovoltaic cell. The three researchers worked for Bell Labs and were trying to solve a problem with the company’s telephone system.

Bell executives demonstrated their invention, the Bell Solar Battery, by powering a radio that broadcasted voice and music. The New York Times called it “the beginning of a new era.”

By 1956, solar cells were available on the market but were still too expensive for the average consumer to buy. The US government was among the earliest users of the technology.

The Vanguard I, launched in 1958, was the first satellite with a solar panel installed, which powered its radios. More satellites followed photovoltaic technology, namely Vanguard II, Explorer III, and Sputnik-3.

More devices using solar energy followed. For example, Paul Macready, an aeronautical engineer, built an airplane in 1981 that used solar cells to promote them as renewable energy sources. He flew the plane from France to the UK across the English Channel and built another solar-powered aircraft, the Gossamer Penguin.

In 1982, an adventurer named Hans Tholstrup drove the Quiet Achiever across Australia. It’s the first solar-powered car to cross an entire continent. Race car driver Larry Perkins designed and built the Quiet Achiever alongside his brother, Garry.

2005

Former President George W. Bush signed the Energy Policy Act (EPACT) into law in 2005. The law introduced a 30% investment tax credit (ITC) for residential and commercial solar energy structures.

Any business or homeowner could deduct a percentage of investment costs from their taxes if they have energy-efficient structures installed. Such constructs include wind energy systems, geothermal pumps, and photovoltaic systems.

Mid-2010s

Solar panels took to the mainstream, finally becoming more affordable for consumers. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) tracked the cost of photovoltaic systems, noting that module prices decreased by around 85% in the past decades.

Present

Advancements in technology continue to push solar energy for various applications, including solar ovens, water heaters, and desalination processes. For instance, some solar-powered units convert the sun’s power into heat, making salt water drinkable.

Some companies have used solar cells for other everyday items like bike locks, wireless keyboards, mobile phone chargers, and security cameras.

Countries all over the world are also embracing renewable energy. The Conversation reported that Australia could reach 50% renewable electricity by 2025 due to its push towards installing solar and wind-powered structures.

The Future Looks Bright

Even though solar energy makes up only a tiny percentage of the world’s electricity, the push for renewable energy continues. Australia has shown that a country reliant on renewables is possible, and innovation continues on solar technology.

Using solar energy has come a long way from just using magnifying glasses. Aside from solar-powered cars, airplanes, and other gadgets, the sky’s the limit on the types of devices developed using solar cells.

Solar panels are also becoming more affordable as the years pass, as shown in the trends presented by NREL, which means more consumers can access solar-powered devices for everyday use.

If you’re looking to learn more about solar energy or want a company that provides solar panel installation, consider SolarRNG. Contact us today!

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Thanks to the innovation of solar panels, people can maximize one of the most powerful energy sources. Solar energy has made work and daily tasks more accessible and efficient—may it be powering car engines, generating irrigation pumps and greenhouses for farming, or insulating heat for buildings and water supply.

In understanding how solar energy became the way you know it today, it’s vital to be familiar with one of the greatest contributors to the growth of solar energy evolution: Edmond Becquerel. Continue reading below to get to know the genius who has promoted the study and success of solar technology.

Who is Edmond Becquerel?

Regarded as the Father of Solar Energy, Alexandre-Edmond Becquerel is a French physicist credited for discovering the photovoltaic effect at the young age of 19.

Born in Paris on March 24, 1820, the young Edmond Becquerel started by assisting his father, physicist Antoine Cesar, at the Museum National D’Histoire Naturelle (National Museum of Natural History).

He was appointed a professor at the Agronomic Institute in Versailles in 1849. Becquerel was then recognized as the Chairman of Physics at the Conservatoire des Arts et Métiers (French National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts) in 1853. His son, Henri Becquerel, would then earn a Nobel Prize in Physics for discovering radioactivity in 1903.

Working in his father’s laboratory, he was particularly interested in studying the solar spectrum, electricity, optics, and the phenomena of fluorescence and phosphorescence. With his studies, Edmond Becquerel invented the phosphoroscope to investigate and measure the glow of phosphorescent materials.

Among his numerous works, research, and inventions, Becquerel is most known as the first person to observe the photovoltaic effect.

How Was Solar Energy Discovered: The Photovoltaic Effect

In 1839, Becquerel experimented with an electrolytic cell composed of two platinum electrodes and an acidic solution. When he exposed one of the metal electrodes to light, he discovered that the test subjects would emit voltage and current—the necessary elements to create electricity.

The photovoltaic effect refers to the electricity generated when certain materials are exposed to light or radiant energy, like sunlight. This phenomenon becomes the operating principle of photovoltaic or solar cells. Although Becquerel often used platinum electrodes, he also recorded some responses with electrodes made of silver.

Becquerel couldn’t further explain the underlying physical processes that powered his discovery because it was before British physicist J.J. Thomson’s discovery of electrons in 1897. However, he did apply his discovery of the photovoltaic effect in developing an actinograph—a device that measures an emission of light intensity to record the temperature of heated bodies.

Developing Modern Solar Technology

It’s important to remember that Edmond Becquerel isn’t the inventor of solar panels. But his vital discovery of the photovoltaic effect laid the groundwork for many scholars in developing and researching solar energy. His experiment marked the start of the photovoltaic development and solar technology timeline.

After 44 years, an American inventor named Charles Fritts referenced his study in creating the first photovoltaic cell in 1883. He compressed molten selenium between a gold and brass plate inside a glass box. When the light shone on the box, electrons moved through the selenium, producing an electric current—his prototype became the earliest form of a solar panel.

German physicist Heinrich Hertz became the first to observe the photoelectric effect in 1887. The photoelectric effect is the process by which light is exposed to a solid surface (usually a metal) to release electrons. He also noted that exposing the material to ultraviolet light generated more power than visible light.

Albert Einstein would then further provide a photoelectric effect theory in 1905. He further explained that light consists of packed energies that respond to certain frequencies. These packets, now known as photons, must have a certain frequency to free an electron from a metal. He then won a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921 with this study.

In 1888, Aleksandr Stoletov, a Russian scientist, created the first solar cell based on the photoelectric effect. Meanwhile, American inventor Edward Weston received two patents for solar cells in the same year. His patents proposed transforming radiant energy harnessed from the sun into electrical energy, while the other proposed converting light into mechanical energy.

Know More About How Solar Energy Was Formed

As electrons generate electricity through materials, their electrical current can be harnessed and utilized to power electrical machines or devices. People may also store it in a battery for future use. This discovery has led to many powerful inventions and studies that would’ve never been imagined before.

Edmond Becquerel’s study and experiment sparked the shift from people’s reliance on oils and fossil fuels as main energy sources to utilizing the sun’s clean, abundant, and renewable energy. It’s one of the major steps toward mitigating the effects of greenhouse gases and climate change.

If you’re looking to observe Becquerel’s discovery in practice, save your finances from drowning in high electricity bills, and help the Earth recover from the fatal consequences of climate change, contact us today to know how a solar panel can be a rewarding fixture in your life!

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According to the United Nations (UN), the war in Ukraine has led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, leading to a wave of displacement, hunger, and deprivation. However, it’s important to note that the impact of Russia’s invasion isn’t exclusive to Ukraine and its neighboring countries.

Over the past year, Russia’s declaration of war has caused an extreme surge in fuel prices. Amid enormous economic and geopolitical pressure, this development has forced nations to reassess how they should go about their energy needs.

To deepen your understanding of the ongoing energy crisis, it’s essential to understand why Russia declared war on Ukraine and how much energy countries get from Russia.

Why Did Russia Declare War on Ukraine?

It’s important to go back in history to understand the current situation in Ukraine. After the Soviet Union fell apart in 1991, nations that were members of this transcontinental country (like Ukraine) became independent. These nations turned to the West for their protection and joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Over the years, more nations have joined NATO, with Ukraine expressing great interest in joining. However, Russia has repeatedly stated that NATO’s continuous acceptance of these countries threatens their nation’s security. Ukraine is one of Russia’s closest neighbors, so they don’t want the union to encroach on and influence their territory.

These two countries’ ongoing issues have led to several years of dispute. On February 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a full-scale invasion to bring down Ukraine’s democratic government and put the country under its control. To boot, Putin believes that Ukraine is an integral part of Russia’s culture and history.

How Much Energy Do We Get from Russia?

Russia is a central player in the global energy market, with Europe being explicitly vulnerable to Russian energy supplies. The country is second to the United States in producing natural gas and is the world’s largest gas exporter. Russia also provides 41% natural gas to the European Union (EU) for industry, power generation, and home heating.

The EU is also heavily dependent on Russia, with 27% of its oil and 46% of its coal coming from them. Since the war in Ukraine started, Russia received around €22 billion (US$24 billion) from Europe for oil and gas. Such a strong dependence is now forcing EU countries to seek alternatives to maintaining the security of supply in the area.

What Does the War on Ukraine Mean for Us and the Global Energy Market?

The war in Ukraine has pushed political leaders to reconsider their energy plans. Given that high energy costs can significantly affect different economic sectors making adjustments is an absolute must. Here are some critical changes to the energy industry post-invasion:

1.   The surge in energy prices will cause inflation across different industries

The surge in energy prices is causing a rise of 90% in average costs for electricity generation globally. It also led to 70 million people who just got access to electricity not affording it anymore. Moreso, rising energy costs are shooting up the prices of goods and services worldwide, with a 32% increase in food prices, a 10% price hike in crude oil, and a 4% rise in shipping rates.

2.   There might be a return to stagflation

Consumer prices are constantly increasing, consumer sentiment is collapsing, and leading industrial measures in various countries are suggesting a decline in production. Such circumstances might imply a return to stagflation which would ultimately surge the cost-of-living crisis by lowering household income, tugging the countries’ budget margins, and soaring financial market pressures. 

3.   Food insecurity and extreme poverty are projected

A report by the UN and the World Food Program (WFP) projected that 345 million people would be severely food insecure, signaling a rise of 47 million starving people because of the effects of war in Ukraine. In three months since the war, the United Nations Development Program reported that over 71 million people could have already been forced into poverty.

4.   Change in trade flows and energy supply shortages

Between May and October 2022, Russia stopped the gas flows by 88% to the EU, leaving them with a severe shortage in their energy supply and a significant necessity to find alternatives from other places.

Although many of Russia’s former partners reduced or cut ties with them, Russia kept its oil production and exports at close to levels before the war by increasing exports to nations such as China, Turkey, and India.

5.   Effect on currency and recession

After Russia suspended gas supplies through its main pipeline to Europe, the euro fell below the USD. Its weakness, as opposed to the USD, threatens to damage an economy already dealing with rising inflation.

Because of significant economies’ extreme dependence on Russian gas, economists predict a much faster and far more painful recession in the euro than in the US, explaining the European currency’s weakness versus the USD.

6.   A massive release of housewarming gas

As reported at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UN COP27) in Egypt, the war led to 33 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions. The figure came from calculating the emissions from the oil burnt post-attack on storage warehouses and forest and agricultural fires.

For a better picture, this amount is similar to putting around 16 million cars on the United Kingdom’s roads for two years.

7.   Changes in local and foreign energy policies

Local and foreign countries need to manage energy demand. According to the UN, countries may achieve this through implementing new technologies and behavioral changes in the use of cooling, heating, and mobility.

Some energy policies include the EU’s decision to phase out coal-fired power plants in the Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Romania, with councils nodding on binding 40% EU-level target for renewables in their energy mix. Meanwhile, the UK sets new ambitions for its Energy Security Strategy for offshore wind, nuclear, and hydrogen.

8.   A stronger push for renewable sources of energy

Governments worldwide are under immense pressure following the disruptions to the global energy market since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Based on the International Energy Agency (IEA), the collapse in Russian fossil fuel exports will shift the global energy landscape and accelerate the transition to green energy.

Moreover, the EU wants to accelerate the take-up of renewable energy to advance and reach the goal of lowering the net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55%.

A Brighter Future with Renewable Energy

With Russia disrupting its energy production amid the war, political leaders must act fast to manage the ongoing energy crisis. Moving forward, changes in energy policies are expected to foster economic growth and interest in sustainable energy sources.

The world has been battling climate change even before the war in Ukraine. With the current post-invasion situation, the world faces a major energy crisis, forcing everyone to prioritize solutions that will benefit all. Be part of the solution by switching to renewable energy and acquiring the best solar panels in the Philippines through SolarNRG. 

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As the country’s population grows, the demand for energy to sustain daily household and commercial operations also increases. This rise in demand comes with the need to explore other options, such as solar energy.

Considering alternative energy sources ensures a continuous supply of power in the present while also projecting its sustainable implications for the future.

Solar energy in the Philippines is becoming more popular. Besides its sustainable nature, solar energy is also recognized for its suitability to the country, government support, and expected positive future.

The Present State of Solar Energy in the Philippines

The Philippine government promotes solar energy for its reduced environmental impact. In 2021, solar energy shared 0.7% of the country’s total power consumption.

The increase in solar energy use makes sense as the Philippines is constantly vulnerable to an average of 16 typhoons yearly on top of occasional rain. When these calamities strike, power interruption becomes one of the people’s top concerns. Solar panels are built to withstand heavy weather conditions, thus, making them a suitable energy source for the Philippines.

Given that other renewable energy sources, such as hydro and geothermal, take years to build, the convenience of solar energy installation becomes the best option for both short- and long-term use.

There’s much buzz on the potential of solar energy in the Philippines—and for good reasons.

PH Aims to Go Green

Among other Southeast Asian countries, the Philippines is becoming a global leader in renewable energy, generating 47% of its energy from green or renewable sources.

This feat can be attributed to the country’s initiatives and programs to promote solar energy and renewable energy in general. For instance, tax incentives, import benefits, financial support, and the Green Energy Option Program all support the use of solar energy in the Philippines. 

In addition, there’s a sense of urgency to achieve the vision of a green Philippines due to the continuous impacts of climate change, global warming, and on the local levels, devastating typhoons.

By developing a combination of fossil and renewable energy sources, the Philippine government hopes to become energy self-sufficient. It’s part of the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) 2020-2040, which aims that by 2030, 35% of the power generation mix shall be from green sources, and by 2040, this shall reach the 50% mark.

Solar energy is a primary driver in this goal. Currently, 896 megawatts (MW) of the 7.1 gigawatts (GW) identified renewable energy capacity in the Philippines came from solar energy, coming second to hydropower at 4.3 GW.

Suitability of Solar Energy in the Philippines

According to a study, the Philippines can earn a 100% national power supply from renewable energy. The NREP plans to achieve a target of 1,528 MW of solar energy by 2030. 

This scenario is becoming more evident as the Department of Energy (DOE)’s 2009-2030 Power Development Plan (PDP) anticipates that the country’s energy consumption will reach 149,067 GWh by 2030. These numbers are significantly higher relative to the approximate demand of 86,809 GWh in 2018 and the actual demand of 55,417 GWh in 2008.

Since Filipinos are suffering from the continuous increase in the volatile prices of fossil fuels, choosing solar power can free the country from its dependence on fossils. 

Solar energy is a cheaper alternative, as the country saw a 48.4% drop in solar panel prices in 2011. Aside from being cost-efficient, solar energy in the Philippines also has these other practical benefits:

• Quick installation. A 1-MW solar power plant can start operating after at least six months of construction and development. So in perspective, you can install a residential solar power panel in a week or two.
• Flexible placements. Some solar facilities can be shaped or bent to fit in whichever area you may want to place them.
• Low maintenance. Solar panels require less maintenance than other energy sources.
• Abundant in source. The country receives  4.5 to 5.5 daily average sun hours.

What is the Future of Solar Energy in the Philippines?

Experts say that the solar energy market in the Philippines will continue to prosper due to the continuous investments in this sector on top of its existing governmental support. For instance, a crowdfunding initiative raised more than USD 250,000 to finance renewable energy project developments in the Philippines and India.

The DOE also continues implementing its ongoing initiatives promoting smart-grid technologies across the country. 

Other investments and programs to boost the use of solar energy in the Philippines include:

• The 23-million Access to Sustainable Energy Project of the country, together with the World Bank
• The recently completed Market Transformation through Introduction of Energy-Efficient Electric Vehicles Project, valued at $405 million, in partnership with the Asian Development Bank.

Despite the concerns about inefficient electricity grid infrastructures in the country, solar power in the Philippines is expected to be more prevalent in rural areas due to increasing deployments of solar power installations in far-flung places and the financial benefits from these projects.

The Philippines became one of Southeast Asia’s biggest off-grid solar energy markets, along with Myanmar, securing at least 30,000 to 40,000 units as of the second half of 2019.

Furthermore, a shift from diesel-powered generators to solar panels can help the country save up to $200 million annually, a significant number given the frequent power interruptions brought about by typhoons.

Solar Energy in the Philippines is On!

Is solar power the future of energy in the Philippines?

It may be hard to answer such a big question. Still, considering that solar energy addresses multiple concerns and benefits, it is, beyond doubt, an excellent candidate for being the future of power in the Philippines.

Solar energy is cost-efficient, government-supported, effective in targeting the country’s increasing demand for power, abundant in source, and practical in providing job opportunities.

It’s a good thing that the solar energy market in the Philippines, as predicted by experts, will prosper in the direction of the national target of 35% power generation mix share by 2030 and 50% by 2040. If the country attains these goals, the Philippines will establish itself as one of the leading nations in renewable energy use.

Be part of the movement, play your role in the green agenda, and reap the benefits of switching to solar energy. Send us a message to learn more.

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With energy growing higher in demand, enterprising individuals see this as an opportunity for the transition to solar power. Solar energy is renewable, cost-efficient, and much more environmentally beneficial than traditional sources.

If you’re looking to invest in solar, you may have some looming concerns in your mind. But fear not because this guide will teach you everything you need to know.

Why Invest in Solar Energy?

For a good reason, many people believe solar energy is the future. The technology has been around for quite some time and more people are starting to see it as a better alternative to fossil fuels. The industry has been growing rapidly in the US since 2000, with the most recent decade recording an annual growth rate of 33%. Likewise, China’s solar energy industry saw a 14% growth rate.

SolarPower Europe’s Global Market Outlook for Solar Power noted that the capacity of using solar energy was further demonstrated in 2021 when global participation led to installing 168 GW of solar power, with an addition of at least 200 GW slated for 2022. Today, global solar capacity has effectively doubled since 2018, reaching 2.3 TW by 2025.

5 Ways to Invest in Solar Energy

With the points above in mind, it’s clear that solar energy holds tremendous potential. But now you may be wondering how you can invest in this increasingly popular alternative. To help you out, here are five ways you can invest in solar energy.

• Solar Stocks

Solar stocks operate around the same principle if you’ve invested or participated in the stock market. By holding on to these stocks that can potentially increase in value over time, you stand to earn profits and dividends each year from the solar company you’ve chosen to invest in.

• Solar Derivatives

This type of investment can be much more complicated than traditional solar stocks. Solar derivatives are geared more towards experienced investors since they require complex financial instruments and are prone to larger rises and falls.

• Solar Power Exchange-Traded Funds(ETFs)

An excellent alternative to standard solar stocks, solar power ETFs combine several solar companies’ stocks in a fund, so investors reduce the risk of losing significant amounts of money. They also create a more stable investment experience and are preferred by those looking to invest in solar power projects in the long term.

• Real Estate

If investing through stocks and bonds is something you don’t want to do, another way to invest in the solar energy boom is through real estate. By leasing your land to solar companies and farm operators, you can negotiate a share of their earnings or earn through the agreed-upon rent.

• Solar Power Farm or Plant

Creating your own solar farm may be costly, but the profits and returns on investment over time make it a potentially worthwhile investment. If you plan on pursuing this in the future, having the necessary materials, space, and market research is encouraged to reap the highest possible benefits.

Benefits of Investing in Solar Farms

It’s already been established that solar farms and investing in solar energy are becoming more feasible over time. Aside from solar energy being good for the environment, investing in solar power provides many benefits for individuals and businesses.

• Reduces Your Electric Bills

Making the shift to solar energy can significantly reduce your monthly electric bills. When transitioning to solar energy, you essentially use free power from the sun, and modern panels are commercially made to last at least 25 years.

• Protects consumers from rising energy costs

One of the benefits of shifting to solar power is that you’ll no longer be affected by rising energy costs. Through this, you can protect yourself from any unpredictable increases in electricity costs and be able to predict future estimates for better expense management.

• Creates jobs and boosts the economy

Because the industry is moving rapidly, the increased demand for solar energy will create new jobs. More people installing solar panels in their offices and homes can create more demand for logistics workers, installation staff, and those managing the solar farms on-site.

• Takes advantage of government incentives

Various governments are providing incentives to encourage their citizens to switch to solar. In North American countries, this is reflected through the likes of the Solar Investment Tax Credit, which offers a 26% tax credit to eligible individuals. China’s government has had subsidy programs since the 1990s, encouraging the country’s solar power industry to thrive.

In the Philippines, the government has also encouraged sustainable energy use through the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, which provides both fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to investors

• Reduces carbon emissions

One of the main criticisms of the avid use of fossil fuel is its non-renewable nature and the harmful byproducts it creates upon consumption. These byproducts eventually become the driving factors for climate change.
On the other hand, solar power offers a cleaner alternative because it generates energy from the sun, so no carbon emissions are produced throughout the lifespan of the solar energy process.

• Reduces operating costs of businesses

Like how households can benefit from going solar through lowered electricity bills, businesses can save on operating costs too. Companies transitioning toward sustainable energy can eventually save money that they can use for other operations and internal initiatives.

• Encourages energy independence

With solar energy, you no longer need to rely on electric power distribution companies for your electricity. In many ways, if more people were to shift to renewable energy as the main driver in their homes and workplaces, energy would be accessible to almost everyone. It can also lessen the drastic price fluctuations of commercially sold energy.

How to Get Started

Before you start your solar venture, you’ll need to make several considerations before you build or invest in a solar farm. These can range from small things like conducting market research, applying for documents, or doing oculars and field work to find the best location to build your farm.

• Do your research

As a beginner in the industry, it’s important to find out who the key players are within your area. These involve identifying who the potential competitors or threats are to your business and your target market.

• Create a business plan

Implementing a business plan is an effective guide for any long-term initiatives and investment opportunities forged along the way. A business plan should include executive summaries, a company description, roadmaps, funding requests, and financial projections.

• Obtain the necessary permits

To ensure the business runs smoothly from here, you’ll need to apply for and acquire the necessary paperwork to start a solar farm. Depending on the location of your plant, permit requirements may differ.

For example, solar plants mounted on top of buildings would require electrical and building permits, while those based on the ground can require clearance permits from local and federal institutions.

• Scout for an optimal location

To create a good farm, you’ll need lots of lands to work with. Properties zoned for industrial or agricultural use make the ideal location for solar business ventures. A plot between 8 to 16 hectares is required in terms of size.

• Apply for financial safekeeping and insurance

You’ll need to protect your business should anything unexpected happen. Coordinate with your bank, apply for a new business account, and apply for insurance policies that can cover your business financially and protect them from risks.

• Create your business branding

While marketing your business is optional, investing in your online and offline presence can generate revenue and publicity for your solar farm. It can attract more investors and clients and further your business in revenue generation.

Here Comes the Sun

The solar energy industry has come a long way, and the industry’s outlook is brighter than ever. Thanks to the growth the sector is experiencing, investing in solar energy can be a great way to earn profit and care for the environment simultaneously.

Amid global crisis and economic uncertainty, the promise of solar energy is something you can bet on. Be ahead of the game with SolarNRG, a premier partner for your renewable energy needs!

The post Investing in Solar Energy: A Detailed Guide for Beginners appeared first on SolarNRG.

If that isn’t enough to urge more people to go solar, government bodies are now encouraging their citizens to make the big switch through solar incentives.

In the Philippines, the legislation of the Republic Act (RA) 9153 or the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 was a monumental step in the government’s push for solar energy use in the country. 

Not only did it tap national agencies to urge people and investors, but the RA came with tons of perks and incentives for those who decide to switch to solar as an energy source.

Given its legislated incentives on top of its renowned sustainability and proven efficiency in a country of frequent power interruptions, it’s hard to miss the opportunity to get into solar energy generation.

What are the kinds of incentives you may get upon switching to solar power? Below are ten fiscal and non-fiscal incentives you can expect to avail yourself. 

Fiscal Incentives

1. Income tax holiday (ITH)

A tax holiday is a temporary suspension of taxation. An income tax holiday (ITH) is granted to duly registered renewable energy (RE) developers, which include solar power entities, in your first seven years of commercial operations. 

This exemption covers additional investments you make up to three times from when you initially availed of the ITH benefit.

2. Income tax reductions and zero VAT advantage

After seven years, your ITH perks shall transition to a 10% corporate income tax compared to the regular 30%—a drop that favors registered RE developer companies.

In addition, you get to enjoy a zero percent value-added tax (VAT) rate on developmental and commercial undertakings, such as:

• Purchase of local supply of goods, properties, and services needed for the development
• Construction and installation of plant facilities
• Exploration and development of solar energy sources up to their conversion into power
• Employment of subcontractors and contractors

3. Tax and duty exemptions on imported spare parts

Local and imported equipment and materials for solar power generation within the first ten years of certification are eligible for tax and duty-free advantages, zero-rated VAT, and tax rebates subject to the country’s Department of Finance (DOF) guidelines. 

The RA also mandates that you only use this equipment and materials in solar energy enterprises registered by certified individuals and entities and endorsed by the Department of Energy (DOE).

Your renewable energy equipment and facilities get a fixed maximum of 1.5% realty tax compared to the 2% commercial and industrial property tax in other industries.

4. Cash incentives and tax credit

The government maximizes its solar energy promotion with cash incentives for solar energy developers implementing missionary electrification or providing power access to unviable locations.

The RA also constitutes that solar-powered facilities are entitled to solar rebates. 

These are given through a “cash generation-based incentive per kilowatt-hour rate generated, equivalent to 50% of the universal charge for the power needed to service missionary areas where it operates the same, to be chargeable against the universal charge for missionary electrification.” 

The equipment pays for itself through solar incentives.

Off-grid distributed power will also be exempted from universal charge, along with the power and electricity consumption of a facility’s generator.

In the case of domestic purchases, the VAT and customs duties for supposed importation shall be granted as a tax credit to the solar energy developer. 

5. Support from financial institutions

If you need a further financial push, you’ll be glad to know that solar energy developers are also entitled to financial assistance programs. 

Several banking institutions in the country, including the Development Bank of the Philippines, the Land Bank of the Philippines, and PhilExim Bank, among others, are subject to the recommendation and endorsement of the DOE.

6. A national priority

Solar energy generation, or renewable energy enterprise in general, is a national priority. Its inclusion in the RA translates to a seemingly fixed component in the country’s national investment plan.

One of your solar incentives also includes the government’s prioritization of all purchases and processes related to the field.

Non-Fiscal Incentives

7. Employment of foreign nationals

The government allows foreign ownership of solar energy enterprises to maximize its intent further. This provision deviated from the 40% cap on foreign ownership in other industries when the government passed the law.

This opportunity entails the employment of foreign nationals in supervision, technical assistance, and advisory positions for only five years. However, this excludes positions in the company presidency, management, and finance.

8. Simplified customs procedures

National customs procedures cover revenue-generating mechanisms or regulatory practices for imported goods and services. Fortunately, equipment and materials intended for solar energy generation are exempted from customs taxes and duties, making the process more convenient.

9. Importation of consigned equipment

With custom taxes and duties relatively addressed in favor of importation, you may be able to access the best solar energy equipment from manufacturers in consignment and with a re-export bond.

It means that top-notch quality and cost-efficient solar power panels and equipment can be purchased and imported in consignment for the first ten years of your operations. In addition, the re-export bond also allows the return of materials to the manufacturers for repair, contract execution, or other stipulated purposes.

10. Privilege to operate a bonded manufacturing or trading warehouse (subject to customs rules and regulations)

The RA also allows the operations of bonded warehouses in the country. These are warehouses “operated by a private company in a foreign country under the regulatory supervision of that country’s customs agency” to minimize customs fees.

If you’re a foreign investor worrying about physical facilities in the country, this provision should ease your concerns.

Green-Light Your Solar Investment Today!

From incentives such as tax reductions to logistical support, solar energy generation is an excellent long-term investment for you or your business. With the government backing you up, you’ll receive massive support through discounts and tax breaks for using solar power, cost-efficient measures, and sustainable nature.

A bright future is ahead of you and your business. Plan and install your solar power with SolarNRG Philippines and be part of the government-supported green movement. Contact us now!

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It’s hard to imagine how far humanity has come since the invention of electricity. Who knew people could harness sunbeams and use them as a sustainable power source that everyone can use?

The great thing about solar energy is that you can continuously harness it as long as there’s sunlight. Furthermore, using less of what you generate translates to a surplus of energy. If you’re thinking of a way you can store this surplus of energy, you have two options:

• Keep it in solar batteries for later use
• Send it to the grid

Solar batteries are more commonly used, but what exactly does sending energy to the grid mean? Essentially, it involves a system called net metering. This quick-read blog can help you understand more of this concept.

What is Net Metering?

Net metering is a billing method allowing customers who install solar panels to receive a credit on their electricity bills for the power they send to the grid. When your solar panels produce more electricity than you consume at any given time, the excess energy is credited to you.

There will be cloudy days that won’t have enough sunlight to generate the power you need, making you rely on the grid for electricity. It means your home will consume more grid electricity than solar. In the Philippines, the amount in kWh you export to the grid will be computed at the end of each month by multiplying it by the generation rate. The total amount in Php will be deducted from your total bill. It should be noted that the total bill is still computed based on total grid kWh consumed excluding solar production.
Essentially, the monthly billing shall be reduced by the net-metering credit which is computed by exported energy (in kWh) multiplied by the generation rate (in PHP/kWh). Net metering is the basic policy that governs this process in the solar industry.

3 Awesome Benefits of Net Metering

If you’re willing to make an effort to switch to solar energy, you should know how net metering works to take advantage of these benefits:

1. Creates jobs and encourages private investments

Net metering helps increase the demand for solar energy systems, which in turn provides significant benefits in terms of employment, income, and investment. These open opportunities for electricians, installers, and manufacturers to work in the solar industry. And with strong policies that help the solar industry thrive, these will ultimately boost the country’s overall economy.

2. Gives consumers control over their electricity bills

Utility consumers can efficiently generate their own clean electricity through net metering. Most solar users produce more energy during the day than they consume, which allows them to export surplus power to the grid, which would help reduce their electricity bills in the future.

3. Protects the utility grid

It’s generally believed that net metering is a cause of lost revenue opportunities. But the truth is policies have been in place to create a smoother demand curve for electricity. This helps utilities manage their peak loads better. Through net metering, the strain on distribution systems is reduced, preventing losses in electricity transmission and distribution over long distances. This essentially protects the grid while lowering consumption through clean solar energy.

Net Metering in the Philippines

Net metering is part of the first fully implemented clean energy policy instrument in the Philippines called The Renewable Energy Act of 2008. On May 27, 2013, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) approved the rules enabling the net-metering program for renewable energy in ERC Resolution 09.

Customers of distribution utilities who pay their energy bills on time and in good standing are eligible to participate in the Net-Metering Program for Renewable Energy. An example of this program in the Philippines is the net metering service provided by Meralco.

Because net metering exclusively displaces energy (kWh) charges, customers with demand (kW) charges might not be the best candidates for this policy. However, this can start working in their favor if their peak demand and the availability of their renewable energy source coincide. In this case, net metering can potentially reduce the coincident peak electricity demand.

Essentially, net metering can deliver great benefits for solar energy users. However, you should note that a 100 kW capacity limit is placed on renewable energy systems under this policy as defined by Section 4 of the renewable energy (RE) law. In other words, the system is only for distributed generation (DG) or small generation entities supplying power directly to the grid.

Maximize Your Solar Panels

Net metering benefits the people who invest in solar systems. Residents and companies can expect to save money on electricity bills over time through solar panels and contribute to the country’s renewable energy goals.
If you’re looking for a reliable solar panel system, catch our experts at SolarNRG to help you choose the right products and help you with installation. Contact us today!

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