Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of the Caltex brand of fuels and lubricants, donated Php1.2 million to Tahanang Walang Hagdanan, Inc. (TWHI) and SasonbiSolar to be used for solar power system installation in TWHI.
The initiative will help TWHI achieve a more renewable and lower carbon intensity source of energy. The solar panels will be provided and installed by SasonbiSolar; a pioneering expert in the solar energy industry in the Philippines.
This initiative marks CPI’s inaugural partnership with TWHI, a non-government organization established in 1973 aimed at providing personal and professional growth for persons with disabilities (PWDs) through training and various programs such as pharmaceutical packaging, katsa bag productions, made-to-order wheelchairs, wooden educational toys and school chairs. Aside from these, TWHI also offers services such as wood crafting, sewing and metallurgy, all done by PWDs.
The solar panel installation project aims to cut down TWHI’s electricity bill, which takes up 15 to 30 percent of their total expenses.
“This collaboration with TWHI and SasonbiSolar is a strategic step towards shaping a lower carbon future for TWHI. By introducing solar photovoltaic (PV) generator system, we hope to create a positive impact not only in terms of lowering TWHI’s carbon footprint but also in supporting the economic growth of TWHI. The savings generated from the lower energy consumption will be redirected towards bolstering more funds for their future projects,” said CPI’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Atty. Raissa Bautista.
“We are deeply honored to have a reputable organization such as Chevron as our supporter. We have consistently faced financial constraints, and the implementation of this solar PV system presents a valuable solution to mitigate our ongoing challenges. By adopting solar energy, we anticipate a substantial reduction in our electricity bills, allowing us to focus more resources on our programs. We hope to have CPI’s continued support to bring all our ideas and plans for TWHI to fruition,” said TWHI’s President and CEO, Mr. Felix Gonzalez, Jr.
The project provider, SasonbiSolar, has a track record of supporting various solar projects in communities in need, bringing in a wealth of experience and expertise to ensure the successful execution of lower energy power systems.
Chevron Philippines Inc. and SasonbiSolar have worked on a similar project in the past involving the funding and installation of solar PV system at the San Pablo Apostol Parish in Tondo, Manila. The project helps the parish lower its electricity costs and reduce its carbon footprint while increasing its budget to support its community.