Tamparan, Lanao del Sur – Championing renewable energy since 2023, the Tamparan Provincial Hospital in Lanao del Sur province is reaching new heights in energy stability and security with the installation of a 40kWp hybrid solar Photovoltaic (PV) system. This milestone was marked during the Launching Ceremony held Thursday, December 4.

This initiative towards energy independence is part of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Access for Climate Security and Health Services (RE3ACHS) Project. The support is envisioned to enhance patient care and build the capacity of local institutions in adopting climate-resilient and clean energy. RE3ACHS is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of Lanao del Sur and funded by the Government of Japan. 

For a hospital in Lanao del Sur, reliable and uninterrupted power is more than keeping its daily operations- it is a lifeline for thousands of families. Hospitals depend on diesel generators for back-up power when outages due to storms or grid failures occur–a challenge healthcare facilities in the province face. 

Speaking on behalf of Gov. Mamintal Adiong, the Provincial Board Member and Chairperson of the Energy Committee Ansari Gandamra, emphasized the initiative's impact: “Reliable power is not just an infrastructure concern— it is a lifeline. For hospitals, it means uninterrupted medical services safe for childbirth, proper storage for medicine and the ability of our health frontliners to deliver urgent care without fear of power loss.”

Building on its commitment to renewable energy, Tamparan Provincial Hospital will add a 40kWp hybrid solar PV system under the RE3ACHS Project. This will expand its 23kWp hybrid solar PV system completed in 2023 through UNDP’s support with funding from the Global Environment Facility, and the 50kW hybrid solar PV system installed in September 2025, funded by the Ministry of Health (MOH).

According to reports, the provincial hospital started reducing costs for diesel generators since shifting to solar power, with an estimated annual savings of Php 2 million. This move has been cost-efficient and has improved their health care services while reducing their carbon footprint.

In partnership with the PLGU of Lanao del Sur, Department of Energy (DoE), the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE), the MOH, and interested local government units, the REA3CHS Project is providing hybrid solar PV facilities with battery storage systems to three other health facilities in Lanao del Sur. Among these facilities are Dr. Serapio B. Montañer Jr. Al-Haj Memorial Hospital in Malabang; Wao District Hospital; and Lanao del Sur Provincial Infirmary in Marawi City.

These hybrid solar PV systems will bring reliable power for life-saving health services such as vaccine refrigeration, birthing facilities, pediatric wards, pharmacy, emergency rooms, and blood banks, ensuring that the 40,000 households in the coverage area of the hospitals can access energy-secured medical services and facilities. 

A Green Light to Renewable Energy in Lanao del Sur healthcare facilities

During the ceremony, stakeholders, partner ministries, line agencies, and local government units expressed support for energy security in BARMM. This includes continued efforts and strengthened commitment in localizing policy support and advocacy for the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), and as part of the Philippine Energy Plan and the National Renewable Energy Program (2020-2040). 

Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, H.E. Endo Kazuya, acknowledged the significance of collaboration and partnership in a recorded video message during the launch: “This gathering stands as a clear testament of our shared effort for BARMM’s progress. Energy efficiency is vital for the pursuit of progress. A safe energy source is a fundamental necessity in our time. It is my hope this partnership will bring timely support and relief in this critical sector.”

The RE3ACHS Project also focuses on providing capacity building to local governments in developing Local Renewable Energy and Efficiency Plans (LREEPS), training technical staff, and conducting feasibility studies and investment forums, including Sharia Financing.

In his message, Knut Otsby, UNDP Resident Representative, a.i., emphasized how this milestone is a result of collaboration–from a shared vision to tangible solutions that transform lives: “Let us reaffirm our shared vision: a future where every health facility has reliable power, where communities are resilient to climate risks, and where clean energy drives inclusive development. This is not just a project—it is a promise to the people of Lanao del Sur, and a beacon of hope for the entire region.”

The MOH has committed to providing energy security to all 39 rural health units in Lanao del Sur. UNDP Philippines, through the RE3ACHS Project, affirmed support for this MOH-led effort by assisting in the design of appropriate solar PV solutions, training healthcare staff on proper system management, and mobilizing investors to advance the health ministry’s plan for energy security across RHUs and up to the barangay health stations. This collective vision, which requires collaboration among various stakeholders, will establish the province as a champion of sustainable healthcare delivery in the Bangsamoro region.

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