The province of Lanao del Norte is at the forefront of a burgeoning energy democracy movement, largely attributed to the successful implementation of the net-metering program. This was the key message delivered by Energy Regulatory Commission Chairperson and CEO Monalisa Dimalanta during her address at the 48th Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) of the Lanao del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (LANECO), held on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the Mindanao Civic Center Gymnasium in Sagadan, Tubod.
Chairperson Dimalanta highlighted how Lanao del Norte is now beginning to fully realize the advantages of energy democracy, empowering consumers to not only consume but also produce their own electricity and feed excess back into the grid.
In a significant moment during the assembly, Chairperson Dimalanta, joined by ERC Market Operations Service (MOS) Director Sharon O. Montaner, personally presented Certificates of Compliance (COCs) to LANECO’s first two Qualified End-Users (QEs). These individuals represent the pioneering spirit of Lanao del Norte in adopting renewable energy solutions.
The ERC Chair lauded LANECO’s consumers for their “progressive-thinking” approach, commending them for leading the way in net-metering adoption. She emphasized that their proactive engagement is not only setting a precedent for Lanao del Norte but is also inspiring other regions across Mindanao to embrace similar sustainable energy practices.
The net-metering program allows consumers with renewable energy systems, such as rooftop solar panels, to export excess electricity generated to the distribution grid and receive credits on their electricity bills. This mechanism incentivizes the adoption of renewable energy, reduces reliance on traditional power sources, and fosters greater energy independence at the local level.
The progress in Lanao del Norte serves as a testament to the potential of energy democracy to create a more sustainable and equitable energy landscape for all.
