• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
After generations without access to electricity, Matabas Island in Barangay Molocaboc, Sagay City, is set to experience its first reliable source of light through a women-led clean energy initiative as the Negrosanon Initiative for Climate and the Environment (NICE) launched its solar energy project on January 26.
Held during the International Day of Clean Energy, NICE launched REPowerMatabas, a solar energy project designed to address energy poverty in the island’s off-grid community, at the State University of Northern Negros Hotel.
Matabas Island is home to an estimated 650 individuals across approximately 150 households, relying primarily on small-scale artisanal fishing for livelihood and sustenance. Due to its geographic location and the high cost of conventional grid expansion to remote islands, Matabas remains an off-grid community with no centralized energy infrastructure, resulting in long-term energy limitations unless alternative solutions are implemented.
In response, the project was launched to address these longstanding community challenges.
According to NICE, REPowerMatabas tackles the interconnected issues of energy access, livelihood insecurity, and climate vulnerability by integrating solar power systems with women-led community governance and capacity-building initiatives.
“The project aims to ensure that access to electricity strengthens local leadership, economic opportunities, and long-term self-reliance,” the organization stated.
REPowerMatabas was made possible through the strong support of the Honnold Foundation, which is helping illuminate not only homes but also the leadership and potential of women in Matabas Island.
The initiative seeks to address these interconnected challenges through a community-driven, solar-based solution that provides reliable electricity, enhances livelihood systems, and empowers the community to take ownership of their energy future.
Meanwhile, a commitment-signing ceremony was held to mark the shared responsibility of stakeholders in advancing a just energy transition, one that recognizes women not only as beneficiaries but also as key drivers of change in their communities.*
