Remote Palawan communities granted MES

The Department of Energy (DOE), in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), formally handed over three Mobile Energy Systems (MES) to the National Power Corporation–Small Power Utilities Group (NPC-SPUG) on Friday.

Developed through the USAID Energy Secure Philippines program, the MES units are mobile, solar-powered platforms equipped with battery storage and designed to supply electricity in off-grid areas, particularly during disasters and emergencies.

These newly turned-over MES units will be deployed to remote parts of Palawan that are not connected to the main power grid.

“These MES units represent not just a technological innovation, but a shared vision for energy security and resilience,” said DOE Secretary Raphael Lotilla, who led the turnover ceremony alongside U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson and NPC President Fernando Martin Roxas.

Lotilla emphasized that the MES platforms will help cut fuel expenses and enhance power access in geographically isolated areas. A 70-kilowatt hour (kWh) MES can generate annual fuel savings of up to PHP480,000, while a 50-kWh unit could save over PHP389,000.

“Every peso saved from imported fuel is a peso reinvested into our communities. Every kilowatt-hour generated locally strengthens our energy independence,” he added.

Palawan, widely regarded as the country’s “last frontier,” continues to grapple with frequent power interruptions due to its separation from the national power grid.

The MES units will help ensure the delivery of essential services such as healthcare, emergency communication systems, and infrastructure support during power outages.

In addition to the three units for Palawan, two MES units are already operational in Cagayan province, while another is stationed at the DOE’s central office in Taguig City. Four additional units are scheduled for turnover next month.