In a significant step towards promoting renewable energy education, De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) has partnered with the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED) to support the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge. The Memorandum Of Understanding (MoU) was signed on March 19, 2025, marking DLSL’s commitment to encouraging clean energy solutions within the educational sector.
The 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge, launched in July 2024, aims to install 10 million solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across the Philippines through collaboration from various sectors. CEED, one of the initiative's co-convenors, sees educational institutions like DLSL as essential players in speeding up the country’s transition to renewable energy.
CEED Deputy Executive Director Avril De Torres shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "This partnership with DLSL is exciting. With this challenge, we see how many are willing to welcome renewable energy. This challenge is for and by every Filipino DLSL is one of the many examples of this".
DLSL’s involvement is particularly important due to its location in Batangas, a province traditionally linked to fossil fuel developments. Despite this, Batangas has significant potential for renewable energy, and DLSL’s participation highlights the importance of integrating solar energy into regions with a strong fossil fuel presence. By joining the challenge, DLSL not only supports solar energy but also plays a key role in reshaping public attitudes toward renewable energy.
Dr. Merlin Teodosia C. Suarez, a representative from DLSL, expressed the school’s excitement about the initiative. "We are excited to join the 10 Million Solar Rooftop Challenge. It is clear that education will play a huge role in the democratization of energy. For renewable energy to be integrated into society, schools like us need to help people understand that it is possible”, says Suarez.
The partnership between DLSL and CEED highlights the crucial role that educational institutions play in driving social change. Schools have the power to shape attitudes, and by incorporating renewable energy topics into their curriculum, they can help students and the wider community understand the importance of clean energy and its potential to transform society.
The 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge is already gaining traction, with backing from influential groups such as the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines. As the demand for renewable energy grows, this challenge is seen as a key effort to reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels and promote environmental sustainability.
DLSL’s involvement in the challenge also reflects a broader movement to address climate change and promote environmental responsibility. By supporting this initiative, the school is helping to create a more sustainable future for the Philippines. Additionally, it sends a message to future generations that renewable energy is not only important for the environment but also practical and accessible.
This partnership between DLSL and CEED represents an important collaboration in the transition to renewable energy. It demonstrates the power of education to foster environmental consciousness and inspire future leaders to advocate for cleaner, greener energy solutions. As the initiative gains more support across the country, it is expected to drive lasting change and further reinforce the importance of renewable energy in shaping a sustainable future for all.
