WHY ALL NEW HOMES IN THE PHILIPPINES NEED SOLAR

WHY ALL NEW HOMES IN THE PHILIPPINES NEED SOLAR

Homes Under Construction Should Finally Understand Why They Need to Turn On The Sun

 

Solar Digital Squad
Manila, Philippines
February 11, 2019

 

Why the buzz on solar

In the Philippines, there are 309 houses under construction every single day, which is a total of 113,097 homes under construction in 2016, based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority. Imagine if these newly constructed homes had the potential to produce as much energy as they would consume! Think energy-efficient and technology-focused. Zero in on reduced costs. The result: a safe, healthy, clean, renewable and sustainable future in the Philippines. Solar systems are the key to this.

 

Electric bills in the Philippines

Filipinos are constantly facing the challenge of rising utility bills. Most of the time, we have to sacrifice comfort for the sake of settling the payment on that electric bill. The solution is to work around the problem. Instead of just consuming power like most people, take one step further. Don’t just consume power – produce it as well. How is this done? Rooftop solar. Depending on the roof, design, energy consumption needs, daytime power usage, sun exposure, and a variety of other factors, a solar panel system could be installed and this would produce all the electricity needed for the home or building. What happens then? That house or building would reduce the carbon footprint and make a world a cleaner and healthier planet to live in.

 

What about the rest of the world?

In the United States, California has mandated that by 2020, all homes and low-rise buildings under construction must install rooftop solar. Although that is the first time that a state has required such, similar laws exist in various cities in the United States that involve renewable energy, in this day and age of climate change. According to the Net-Zero Energy Coalition, the United States has 12,000 Net-Zero single family and multi-family homes, which are figures based on the average annual new home constructions in the state of California. In 2017, the U.S. Department of Energy estimated about 39 percent of the total energy consumed in the country was in the residential and commercial sectors. A majority of the energy was produced by fossil fuels like coal, petroleum and natural gas. Now if solar panels are installed, then there would be more energy-efficient homes, structures, and facilities.

Tropical climate solution: Energy efficient homes in the Philippines.
So what do we do with our reality since the Philippines has one of the highest rates of electricity per kilowatt-hour in Asia? Many Filipino homes are dependent on electricity to power their aircon and fans so that they can endure the hot temperatures of the day’s summer heat. This then is the main reason why energy efficiency is becoming an important focus and priority to keep in mind when buying or building a new house or home in the Philippines. Solar systems have the potential to reduce your power bill significantly.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable rooftop solar leader. Backed by decades of experience, Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Solaric is the recognized leader in solar panel installations in the Philippines. The Solaric installers and engineers are well-known troubleshooting experts. They work hard to ensure that solar panel systems run efficiently and seamlessly, so that every single homeowner with rooftop solar can enjoy the benefits of clean and renewable power. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

 

Do you know any homeowner who is interested in installing rooftop solar? Help them out by sharing this article with them!

Click SHARE.

 

Contact the solar experts

For more information on solar power systems and solar system installers and experts, click here.

For more information, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141.

We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses.

At Solaric, we Turn on the Sun.

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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SOLAR POWERS THE BIGGEST COMPANIES IN THE WORLD – HOW ABOUT THE PHILIPPINES?

SOLAR POWERS THE BIGGEST COMPANIES IN THE WORLD – HOW ABOUT THE PHILIPPINES?

Solar Digital Squad
Manila, Philippines
February 11, 2019

 

The biggest companies in the world are powered by solar
Senior executives of the biggest Fortune 500 companies in the world understand the crucial importance of taking advantage of solar and using renewable energy. These companies with green initiatives are environmentally efficient, and today’s eco-aware consumers are more likely to do business with them. Now is the perfect time to consider solar systems in the Philippines.

 

Which companies are green?

There are only two Fortune 500 companies that generate all its energy from renewable sources: Microsoft Corporation and Intel Corporation. Tech giant Microsoft Corporation, for example, is powered by solar and wind entirely, with an annual green power usage of 4,557,278,000 kWh. Intel, on the other hand, uses solar, wind, small hydro, geothermal, and biomass tech, with an annual green power usage of 4,152,034,623 kWh.

 

Let’s take a closer look

The world’s movie and TV episodes streaming giant, Netflix, has an unwavering commitment to sustainability. Netflix 198% more energy than it consumes, from solar, small hydro, geothermal, wind, biogas, and biomass. Kohl’s Department Stores generate 15% more energy than it consumes from solar and wind systems.

 

A car dealership in the Philippines that went solar

A car dealership, in efforts of their brand’s recognition of corporate sustainability and environmental awareness, installed rooftop solar. This translated to savings of Php1.2 Million each year. The financial rewards of the system were only an added benefit to what truly mattered most to them: going renewable and joining the biggest names in the world in their clamor for clean energy.

 

The solar trend in corporate

The corporate universe has an endless list of companies that are uncertain about going solar. Going solar was the clear-cut decision for Apple, Microsoft, Intel, and Netflix. So why shouldn’t it be for all the rest of the companies all over the planet? It’s time for the C&I sector to hop onboard and go renewable. There is no other option. In a country like the Philipines, a solar system is the way to go.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable rooftop solar leader. Backed by decades of experience, Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Solaric is the recognized leader in solar panel installations in the Philippines. The Solaric installers and engineers are well-known troubleshooting experts. They work hard to ensure that solar panel systems run efficiently and seamlessly, so that every single homeowner with rooftop solar can enjoy the benefits of clean and renewable power. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

 

Do you know any company that is interested in installing solar? Help them out by sharing this article with them!

 

Click SHARE.

 

Contact the solar experts

For more information on solar power systems and solar system installers and experts, click here.

For more information, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141.

We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses.

At Solaric, we Turn on the Sun.

 

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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HOW YOUR BUSINESS WILL BENEFIT FROM SOLAR ENERGY

HOW YOUR BUSINESS WILL BENEFIT FROM SOLAR ENERGY

An Interview with an Entrepreneur Who Saved P100K/month on Electricity Expenses

 

Solar Digital Squad
Manila, Philippines
February 11, 2019

 

Take a look at the trend in C&I

Electric prices are constantly increasing. On the other hand, the cost of buying and installing a solar power system or solar panels in the Philippines is decreasing. Solar energy has become the most sustainable and cost-effective alternative for business owners in the last few years. In the Philippines, many owners of small and medium-sized companies are still in the process of understanding how solar power can make financial sense for their business. It is important to keep in mind that numerous Fortune 500 companies are already onboard with using solar power. Conglomerates and enterprises around the world have discovered and utilized the power from the sun, including big giant names such as Apple, Microsoft, Intel, Netflix, Cisco, Walmart, Target, IKEA, and many more. All these companies have embraced solar and reaped its results and benefits. It’s safe to say that solar power systems are wise, win-win, tested and proven investments on the global scale.

 

Savings for the business

“Businesses are zoning in on renewable energy and sustainability. It is now an advantage to market your business as renewable, and there is a significance and importance in that itself. On the other hand, the primary driver for most businesses is energy savings – to reduce their electric bills,” says Mike De Guzman, President of Solaric Corp., the leader in rooftop solar in the Philippines.

 

From the ROI perspective

Of course, energy savings from solar can be very substantial for businesses. Overall energy costs can be reduced by up to 75% by going solar. Research data shows that for businesses, buying and installing solar systems are similar to prepaying electric bills for 5 years. The benefits, however, run for a lifetime.

 

Let’s examine a cold storage facility

We visited a cold storage facility that installed solar with Solaric in year 2017 and asked entrepreneur Cesar Mercado some serious questions. Mr. Mercado’s cold storage warehouse had a monthly Meralco bill of about P580,000 per month. In discussing the details of solar savings and Return on Investment, he says, “A 5.5 million peso system for our cold storage facility, with net metering, results in a monthly electric bill of less than P480,000 each month. That’s 100,000 savings each month. The way I see it, that’s ROI in less than 5 years,” he grins, as he showcases the solar system online monitoring platform.

 

“A more detailed glance at the calculations will show that in under 5 years, we would have made that 5.5M back, and we will continue to reap the benefits of the solar system for the next 20+ years. If we are really going to examine the figures, after the system reaches ROI, it will actually give us P24 Million in savings for the next 20 years! There is no other win-win alternative. We can’t go wrong with solar.”

 

More reasons for your business to go solar

Solar panel systems are reliable and do not require too much maintenance. That means there are typically no monthly repair and maintenance costs. In addition, your business will adopt a green approach, and your company will be defined as environmentally responsible. The costs of solar power systems depend on the energy demands of the business. However, solar panel prices have decreased to more than 80% since year 2011. This makes it affordable and financially feasible for practically every business to go solar.

 

Choosing the right solar company

Selecting the right installation partner in the Philippines for solar panels is a decision that clients should make properly. You should consider the reputation of the solar provider. You should ask your friends and colleagues about their experience with the solar company. You should seek out testimonials. You should ask about the maintenance costs. Most importantly, however, you should choose a solar company that is recognized as industry experts with an extensive list of solar installs.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable rooftop solar leader. Backed by decades of experience, Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Solaric is the recognized leader in solar panel installations in the Philippines. The Solaric installers and engineers are well-known troubleshooting experts. They work hard to ensure that solar panel systems run efficiently and seamlessly, so that every single homeowner with rooftop solar can enjoy the benefits of clean and renewable power. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

 

Do you know a business owner who is interested in a solar panel installation system? Help them out by sharing this article with them!

 

Click SHARE.

 

Contact the solar experts

For more information on solar power systems and solar system installers and experts, click here.

 

For more information, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141.

 

We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses.

 

At Solaric, we Turn on the Sun.

 

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE FOR HOMEOWNERS WITH ROOFTOP SOLAR

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE FOR HOMEOWNERS WITH ROOFTOP SOLAR

Common Problems and Solutions to Your Solar Panel System

 

Solar Digital Squad
Manila, Philippines
February 11, 2019

 

You need to know the basics

Residential rooftop solar systems in the Philippines are taking over. Such solar power systems are typically low maintenance, but only if you use an experienced and qualified installer. It is always wise for the homeowners to familiarize themselves with the basic issues and challenges that come with owning a solar power system. In the same way, when you purchase your very first car, you need to know what to do in the event that it overheats, or runs out of gas, or has a flat tire. Every homeowner with solar should know how to identify, diagnose, and troubleshoot a basic solar power system issue. With solar as the gamechanger in this day and age, here are some tips for the homeowners on troubleshooting solar panels.

 

Your solar power system is not producing the usual power

For instance, you may observe that your solar power system is not producing the usual power, but you may not know the reason why. Now let us explore the issues behind variances in your system’s performance.

 

Check out the electrical wiring

Maybe your wiring is loose. When the wiring is loose for your solar power system, it can result in unexpected electrical issues. Keep in mind that your solar panel system, depending on the type, may be linked photovoltaic cells and batteries and inverters. This means there are many connections where the wiring may fail. In order to correct such wiring discrepancies, you need to talk to a solar installer expert. The installer has tools to pinpoint problems and disconnect parts that may cause additional damage to your solar panel system. If your system has a monitoring tool in place, then you can actually see the power performance of your system on your mobile phone. This then allows you to identify the issue of your system easily and quickly.

 

Heat fade is common

One issue that can result due to temperature problems is the fact that the solar panel system may overheat. This happens when the temperature runs up too high, and this causes your solar panels to produce less power. This is a common issue. During such instances, you may discover that your system receives less power during the hottest times of the sun or the day.

 

Dirty and damaged solar panel systems

As a homeowner, you should also be highly aware that the dirt on your solar panels can cause serious performance issues. This means dirt of any kind: dust, debris, leaves, and other objects. Such dirt reduces panel efficiency and thus affect power production.

 

Cleaning and maintenance

This is why cleaning and maintenance of your solar panel system must be done on a regular basis by the solar panel experts, or by a solar panel cleaning crew. Otherwise, your power output will decrease each year.

 

What if the system still isn’t performing like it used to, even after cleaning?
In such instances, since each system is designed uniquely, then contact your installers, or solar experts, who can correctly and efficiently perform diagnostic steps for electrical issues. Provide the solar crew the problems, timeframe, errors, observations, power losses, and all other relevant information so they can conduct a detailed assessment and identify the core issue.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable leader of rooftop solar systems in the Philippines. Backed by decades of experience, Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Solaric is the recognized leader in solar panel installations in the Philippines. The Solaric installers and engineers are well-known troubleshooting experts. They work hard to ensure that solar panel systems run efficiently and seamlessly, so that every single homeowner with rooftop solar can enjoy the benefits of clean and renewable power. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

 

Do you know a homeowner who is experiencing issues with their solar panel installation or solar power system? Help them out by sharing this article with them!

 

Click SHARE.

 

Contact the solar experts

For more information on solar power systems and solar system installers and experts, click here.

 

For more information, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141.

 

We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses.

 

At Solaric, we Turn on the Sun.

 

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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WHY AREN’T WE BUILDING MORE ZERO BILL HOMES?

Solar system panel information

REGINA ROME
Solar Digital Squad
Manila, Philippines
January 29, 2019

 

What the Philippines needs

Perhaps it’s time for the Philippines to join the trend towards sustainability more proactively. The planet is gearing towards eco-friendly housing developments, green buildings, and renewable energy. It’s time that the entire population of the Philippines uses solar energy.

What’s the hype on solar about?

We need to implement a workable plan to deliver a higher quality of life for Filipinos. That means improvements in energy efficiency and going large scale in terms of renewable energy production. That will lead to a turning point where we can all make a difference in the future of our planet. Where is the future of our construction industry headed? We need to adapt to tools that can deliver this evolution towards solar energy and renewable energy. Rooftop solar is the win-win solution. Everyone is now aware of climate change and fossil fuel hazards. The government promotes it – now we just need to become part of the solution, rather than continue to contribute to environmental problems. It is 2019, and we should now start talking about building houses with zero bills. That is perhaps the most important and phenomenal concept of current technology.

 

Zero Bill Homes

Carbon neutral homes with rooftop solar are the ones that can easily produce zero bills. What exactly is a zero bill? It’s pretty simple and straightforward: it means free electricity. Free power. Every homeowner, entrepreneur, and business executive want free power. There is an undeniable clamor for guilt-free power. Imagine every Filipino relaxing in the comforting, cool atmosphere of an air-conditioned room, especially in the midst of the tormenting daytime summer heat of the tropical Philippines. With a solar power system in place, there virtually every single homeowner can become a consumer and a producer of power at the same time. How is this possible? The homeowner simply needs to install solar and avail of Net Metering. Then the homeowner gets paid for providing clean solar power to the grid. He does not just use the power, he produces power as well. The results? First, he will enjoy the benefits and luxury of free power (including guilt-free aircon). Second, he will enjoy the advantage of a zero bill – meaning he pays zero, or nothing, to the electric company each and every single month.

 

Time to go unli

Yes, it requires all homeowners to actually get on board. Think zero energy home. Think zero bill home. The trend is contagious. Think about your current electricity consumption. Now, imagine unli-electricity.

 

Zero bill homes

Zero bill homes are now popping up all over the metro and all throughout the archipelago. The future is all about developing and constructing zero bill homes. The concept is in place. The legislation is in place. The government is in full support. The payback on the investment is clear. The contribution to a safer and healthier planet is eternal. Everyone wants an energy positive home in the Philippines. Through solar energy, your property value increases. It’s reached the point that it’s a no-brainer.

 

Turn On The Sun

For more information on solar power systems and solar panel prices, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141.

We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses.

At Solaric we Turn on the Sun.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable rooftop solar leader. Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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GUILT-FREE AIRCON: It All Started in Tacloban After Yolanda

GUILT-FREE AIRCON

REGINA ROME

Solar Digital Squad

Manila, Philippines

January 18, 2019

 

The first Solaric home

The case study is a 300 square meter home in an exclusive gated subdivision in Makati. It was the summer of 2012. Mike De Guzman, President of the premier solar panel distributor in the Philippines, Solaric Corp., conducted a site inspection. It was hot, as the summer sun’s rays bombarded its 39-degree Celsius heat on the Southeast Asian country. The homeowner resorted to using electric fans. When asked why, the environmental hipster replied, “Dahil mahal ang aircon. Kahit na global warming, hindi ko sinisindi ang aircon.” She was a conservative one, as she went on to explain that she brings “bayongs” while shopping because she was careful to avoid using plastic bags. She recycles everything down to bottle covers.

 

Lightbulb moment

This was the birth of the guilt-free aircon concept of the Solaric Founders. “I wanted the average Pinoy to turn on the aircon anytime he wants to. I wanted to solve the problem with brute force through the power of solar. From my experience supplying batteries for the data center of my call center, I knew that storing and discharging power from a battery costs more than using power from the utility itself. On the other hand, running aircon on lead-acid batteries would be cost-defeating. I wanted a solution that would work – and I knew that solar was the answer,” declares Mike.

 

In 2013, the price of solar panels crashed because of China. Solaric purchased inverters and solar panels online at decent, affordable rates. Solaric received its first pallet of panels.

 

“Based on memory recall, extensive DIY experience, training videos, and self-education, I hooked up 12 large solar panels to the inverter. It powered the aircon and other appliances. Then I looked at the electric meter. In utter amazement, I watched it move backward!” Mike exclaims.

 

What was happening was that the solar-powered the aircon and was pumping another 1 kW or more back to the grid. That was Mike’s eureka moment. “I felt like I struck gold. Running free aircon in the Philippines is like having a car that runs on water!”

 

It became the first house on net metering in the Philippines

Solaric then contacted Meralco and requested for Net Metering, a provision of the Renewable Energy Act that mandates utilities to credit excess solar power against consumption. The reply of the Meralco employee was, “Ano? Net ano?” She was a representative of the utility and even she herself hadn’t heard of such a thing. Perhaps supplying power behind the meter is something that the utility had never considered as part and parcel of their business plan. It was a long process at the time, mainly because it was very new to the utility company. It was new to the nation. It was new to the City of Makati too.

 

Solaric began to lay down the groundwork

The Solaric team went through the motions of proving that solar was safe and feasible. Things slowly started moving. Then, Typhoon Yolanda struck. We received reports that there was the total destruction of the electrical grid in Central Visayas. There was a communication breakdown. People could not contact each other. Due to the absence of power, hospitals were affected. Infants were dying because incubators and ventilators could not work.

 

Mike decided to put his experience into application. He made a solar generator to conserve fuel and produce consistent power. He created an Improvised Charging Device (ICD) to power up communications gear and laptops. The concept was clear, but building portable stand-alone units had yet to be done. Mike went on to convert a Land Rover roof rack into a solar generator on wheels and cobbled together random electronics for the first responders to bring to Visayas. The equipment was transported to Visayas and tested. It was functional and effective. Then it died due to overloading.

 

Solaric hauled all its solar panels and supplies that were allocated to its first two clients, and brought all its startup assets to Tacloban. There was no question about it. The call to duty was first and foremost. The Philippines was in the midst of a crisis. Solaric launched its first official project and made self-contained solar power systems, and installed them where there was absolutely no power.

 

The rest was history

Solaric delivered over a dozen self-contained cell phone charging stations all over the Visayas region. Each station could charge over a hundred phones a day, which was essentially a big deal for areas that had been dark for weeks. With a working phone, people were able to call to reassure concerned loved ones that they were surviving the devastation. They were also able to report missing family members and emergencies.

It was a 5-week assignment into the towns most devastated by Typhoon Yolanda. Mike states, “It was like a scene from a zombie apocalypse movie. All the houses we passed were destroyed. Tacloban was a large city, the jewel of Eastern Visayas, and it looked like it got hit by atomic warfare. Every building and every tree were damaged destroyed. There were mass graves all over the place. We salvaged what we could find. We soldiered on because everyone had lost the strength to do so. We turned over our solar off-grid energy systems to random constituents, simply because they needed them.”

“In Malapascua, I saw an elderly old man suffering from an asthma attack, and he was getting a breath of a now-operating nebulizer from our jerry-rigged solar setup. That was the reward – knowing that we had contributed to helping save the lives of our fellow countrymen.”

 

Turning on the kindness

These human acts of kindness were witnessed by the world. People started tuning in. People started following Solaric. Love and kindness are contagious. The figures jumped to over a million views on Facebook. People began talking about solar being a practical solution – a reliable and affordable power alternative.

 

Back in the city

When the crisis was over, Solaric returned to Manila and continued their work and passion for turning on the sun. Persistence paid off when the very first net metering installation in the country was issued to the homeowner through the coordination of Solaric. Fast forward to 2019, Solaric, the most reliable solar panel distributor in the Philippines, is now the leader in rooftop solar. They provide the best solar power solutions to clients all over the nation, with a maximum return of expectations and exceptional after-sales service.

 

That was the humble beginning of Solaric. They delivered practical solutions in extraordinary circumstances and turned on the sun when there was nothing but darkness.

 

For more information on solar power systems and solar panel prices, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141.

 

We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses.

 

At Solaric we Turn on the Sun.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable rooftop solar leader. Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

 

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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WHY HE TURNED ON THE SUN: A Throwback Tale About the Beginnings of Solaric Corp.

WHY HE TURNED ON THE SUN

REGINA ROME

Solar Digital Squad

Manila, Philippines

January 18, 2019

 

It all started with a little experiment

“We ran a little experiment on how to run an air conditioner without using Meralco power,” says Mike De Guzman, President of Solaric Corp., when asked how the Philippine solar power equipment company began.

 

He was the chemistry lab geek

“My formal education was in business — but I am a power engineer at heart. Even before I finished high school, I assembled a homemade generator during the 90s power crisis. I always loved tinkering around with all sorts of electrical projects growing up. At age 10, my brother and I rewired the lighting in our bedroom to a bedside switchbox. We made our own electric cars out of junk spare parts and toilet paper tube holder battery packs.”

 

Mike was the chemistry lab geek in high school, who was known to accidentally blow up the science project by creatively mixing substances in quantities that would definitely result in an epic blast. He went on to business school in California for college, while his parents were imagining their son becoming an investment banker of some sort. During his final year in business school, a fire erupted and gutted their house. Mike then had to learn about construction and construction management, as they rebuilt their residence in Northern Cali.

 

But challenges define a person’s character

It’s true — challenges build character and necessity is the mother of invention. As the rolling blackouts of the 90s ensued, Mike learned to assemble a generator from a dynamo he purchased in Chinatown, with a Yanmar diesel rice thresher motor that had truck fan belts linking it together. As he began to understand the art of building homes, he embarked on a career in real estate development. This proved to be far more profitable than working for corporate America as a fresh college grad. Thus, in his early 20s, Mike built houses and supervised large work crews of American contractors.

 

Once a hobby, always a hobby

Passion never dies. His mind never stopped exploring DIY projects, which ranged from modifying cars to assembling computers. Other interests involved sports and adventures, including scuba diving, downhill skiing, white water rafting, back wilderness trips, and driving insanely fast motorcycles for 300 km+ excursions to unsafe limits.

 

And then they became two

“I met my wife Jade in an open water diving trip. We had a mad plan after getting married to go back to the Philippines and set up a BPO or call center, and run it until we grew old,” Mike grins, as he recalls events that transpired more than 15 years ago. “What I liked most about setting up the call center was constructing the facility, configuring backup power systems, and stuff like that. The BPO business exposed us to all sorts of business ideas and business models, one of which was telemarketing for solar systems in California. That was what planted the seed of inception.”

 

The gears started turning

Mike started analyzing energy costs in running their call center. He discovered that energy costs often exceeded rent, and was almost approximately the same amount as their salary and wages expense. As he indulged in further research in power, he realized that the entire nation was actually paying way too much for power. That triggered his interest in power conservation in the Philippines through solar power equipment.

 

“Then, during one of our vacations to the United States, we rented a fabulous house with rooftop solar, owned by a plastic surgeon. Piqued by the solar phenomenon, I rummaged through the house looking for its batteries. All I found was a red box called SMA that displayed kWh exported to the grid without battery. After a little research, I found out that the house was actually sending surplus power back to the grid through some sort of credit program with the utility. The government was virtually paying the surgeon for the excess power, with tax write-offs and subsidies. Right then and there, I was sold. I knew I had to be at the helm of the solar revolution in the Philippines.”

 

As soon as they touched back down on Philippine soil, Mike and Jade incorporated Solaric. The rest was history.

 

For more information, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141. We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey, so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses. At Solaric, we Turn on the Sun.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable rooftop solar leader. Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

 

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR MERALCO BILL IS TOO HIGH

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR MERALCO BILL IS TOO HIGH

REGINA ROME

Solar Digital Squad

Manila, Philippines

January 17, 2019

 

Let’s talk about rates and pricing

With the nation examining electricity rates, the ultimate focus is pricing. What should you do when your Meralco bill is too high? Would installing solar panels in the Philippines be the cheaper option? There are a few areas that affect electric bill rates, which include revenues, costs, charges, fees, etc. It is the end consumer that covers three critical costs which are distribution, transmission, and power generation. What the consumer pays is reflected in the electricity price index. According to a survey conducted by the Philippine Statistical Authority (PSA), at least 4.8% of household expenses go to electricity. In another light, as revenues increase, costs likewise increase. This goes for utilities, including electricity, water, gas, fuel. On top of all that, there is a thing called Electricity Price Index (EPI).

 

Zero in on technical stuff about profits

Globally, there is Return on Rate Base (RORB), which is a regular pricing method used by utility companies. This means the utility firm is allowed to set a price that makes specific profit possible under RORB. In the Philippines, the RORB is approximately 12%, which means that the electric company is allowed to make up to 12% in profit. It is the maximum allowable limit.

 

In analyzing case studies, we have to theorize that a utility company should make at least 10% after taxes. That translates to generating revenues of at least 15% or more before taxes. Should we incorporate interest on capital, expenses, suppliers, costs, and other expenditures, gross margin must be set at more than 20% in order to meet the profit targets.

 

In retrospect

In the business of electricity in the Philippines, in reality, and in summary, the years 2006-2012 were not very good years for the business, especially since the power generation companies only receive less than half of what end consumers pay. It makes no sense to sustain the business over long-term.

 

What exactly is the grand master plan?

Consumers are clamoring for lower electricity bills, especially as inflation continues to surge and as other market rates increase. What is the grand masterplan, or contingency plan, for the end consumer? There are two choices: either watch prices rise in the coming years or, find a sensible and feasible alternative for power. The answer is simple: the solution is solar.

 

The typical homeowner dilemma

Our typical homeowner lives in an average income subdivision and his Meralco bill amounts to Php10,000 each month. A look into his home reveals his daytime appliances to include: washing machine, dryer, electric stove, air conditioners, kitchen appliances, refrigerator, television sets, computer, and gadgets. With the power rates on their relentless climb to the sky, the homeowner is exploring an alternative solution. He wants a lower monthly bill. He has to provide enough funds to sustain his small family, pay for the education of his two children, food, water, supplies, toiletries, and everything else that comes alongside running a household.

 

So here is the solution to a high Meralco bill

The ideal solution is to install a large solar power system (such as 8 kWp Solar Power System) and then register with Meralco’s Net Metering Program with Peak/Off-Peak (POP). It is the simple and ideal solution.

 

In this setup with a large solar power system, a house will have enough rooftop solar to generate enough power. That way, the power received from the utility company is offset by the exported surplus power generated by the installation of solar panels in the Philippines. This basic model reduces the Meralco bill to Zero. In other words, the surplus electricity from your solar system will be exported to the grid. This will offset the cost of grid supply charges.

 

The goal is simple: every homeowner wants free electricity. Here now is the opportunity to consume AND produce power at the same time. Anyone can be a consumer AND producer of power — not just the homeowners. Even businesses, factories, warehouses, plants, establishments, buildings, farms, and more. Everyone wants to be paid for providing clean solar power to the grid.

 

What happened to the homeowner who installed the 8kWp solar system?

Months later, when the homeowner checks his electric bill, the monthly average is zero. Yes, the total amount payable is Php0.00. That homeowner now enjoys the luxury of guilt-free aircon. The investment on solar pays off almost instantly. There are two key selling points that are non-negotiable. First, you pay nothing each month to Meralco. Second, you help save the environment.

 

Zero bill recap

Put plenty of solar panels on your roof and generate enough power. Then export this power to the utility company. In doing this, you do not have to pay a single centavo on your electric bills. Better yet, you get paid for the electricity that you will provide. The zero bill is a benefit of being a consumer and provider. There are various ways to set up solar so that you will never have to pay for power again. Click here for a free site inspection today.

 

For more information, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141. We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey, so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable rooftop solar leader. Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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WHY THE PHILIPPINES NEEDS TO TURN ON THE SUN

WHY THE PHILIPPINES NEEDS TO TURN ON THE SUN

REGINA ROME

Solar Digital Squad

Manila, Philippines

January 15, 2019

 

Solar is really the cheapest source of power

It’s true. Solar power is really, truly the cheapest source of power, most specifically in the Philippines, where it is the best alternative to power generation. This kind of power is easy and simple to generate with today’s affordable solar panels in the Philippines. It’s reliable, accessible, and affordable.

 

“A decade ago, solar tech was expensive and not exactly financially feasible. Now, with more nations getting onboard, and with higher demand, solar power has become affordable for the average consumer. It isn’t just a power source choice. It is ideally the only choice that makes any sense,” said Jade De Guzman, the Vice President of Solaric, the recognized leader in solar rooftop in the Philippines.

 

How low can you go?

Solar panel prices have dropped so low that records claim that the rates declined 90% in the last decade, and 50% in the last three years. Solar panel experts that studied prices of solar panels through the years concluded that the price per watt peak (Wp) panel was Php150 in the early 2000s, which is equivalent to Php150,000 for a 100-Wp solar panel. Now, however, the cost averages to just about Php15 per Wp, which translates to Php15,000 for a 100-Wp panel. Then: Php150,000. Now: Php15,000. The numbers back up the stats: 90% drop.

 

Who’s hopping in the backseat?

The common misconception among us Pinoys is that rooftop solar is just for the houses. The truth is, it is not just the households that are clamoring for solar and switching up to the good life. Many establishments are going solar and turning on the sun: schools, factories, ice plants, car dealerships, shopping malls, banks, buildings, condominiums, and more. Industry names that have tapped the rooftop solar potential Toyota, SM and Robinsons malls, De La Salle University, and Asian Development Bank. Well of course. Who wouldn’t want cheaper power? Once you install solar your solar panel in the Philippines, you can register with Net Metering. Then you get credited for your excess or surplus electricity. You join the Net Zero phenomenon, otherwise known as the #ZeroBill.

 

“Solaric has installed rooftop solar in over 2,000 homes and establishments nationwide. We’ve trained over 5,000 individuals on solar. The demand for knowledge and power is clear. There’s only one direction, and that’s renewable,” Jade states. “These are definitely exciting times in the power industry.”

 

For more information on solar power systems and solar panel prices, click here.

 

For more information, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141.

 

We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses.

 

At Solaric we Turn on the Sun.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable rooftop solar leader. Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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MERALCO vs SOLAR: WHICH IS CHEAPER?

MERALCO vs SOLAR: WHICH IS CHEAPER?

REGINA ROME

Solar Digital Squad

Manila, Philippines

January 15, 2019

 

Tapping the solar potential

The facts remain. The Philippines has one of the highest electricity rates on the planet and the highest in Asia. How can the Philippines lower its cost of power? How can the Philippines improve national energy security? There is only one answer: by tapping the potential of solar rooftop energy. The solution is to drive the potential of solar systems in the Philippines to ensure lower power rates.

 

What’s in it for the utility?

People are asking a simple question: what exactly is the incentive for the utility? Why should they transition from coal when that has been working for them for decades? The unanswered question drives the Philippines to continue trudging along in the power sector without gaining momentum into what we all know is the renewable energy future. Tomorrow is all about RE. Tomorrow is all about energy efficiency. Tomorrow is all about distributed storage.

 

What’s going on?

The buzz in the circuit reports that there are eight solar projects in line amounting to over $1 billion. The target is 8 gigawatts of solar installations by the year 2030, with 35% of that energy being generated by rooftop solar. That in itself is an investment value of nearly $3 billion in solar systems in the Philippines.

 

Solaric Vice President Jade De Guzman said, “There is evidently a tremendous opportunity to shift towards a safer and more renewable Philippines. It’s about time we replace old school energy involving fossil fuel and coal, and anything detrimental to the planet and the human population. There are so many feasible options available to us, wind, hydro, geothermal, and of course solar – which remains top of the list in terms of being affordable and diverse. It’s a no-brainer.”

 

Breaking it down

“Each kilowatt of rooftop solar we install is equivalent to a decrease in the import of coal and diesel power. That simple fact alone saves our nation billions of dollars each year,” said Mike De Guzman, President of Solaric Corp. “Our only roadblocks now are regulatory — let’s look forward to regulations being passed that makes sense and leads us towards a renewable nation.”

 

For more information on solar power systems and solar panel prices, click here.

 

For more information, please visit www.solaric.com.ph or email us at info@solaric.com.ph call 5040092 or 09178603141.

 

We will gladly explain to you how the system works, or schedule a survey, so we can give you options for your new home or existing homes or businesses.

 

At Solaric we Turn on the Sun.

 

Solaric is the leader in rooftop solar

Solaric has established its name across the renewable industry as a proven and reputable rooftop solar leader. Solaric has installed more than 50% of residential rooftop solar in the Philippines and has delivered significant cost reductions in electricity expenses, as well as milestone contributions to a cleaner, greener, and renewable future. Solaric is now zoning in on corporate and industrial projects to offer them the same cost reductions. Welcome to the new generation of solar and turning on the sun.

 

Regina Rome is a solar analyst with the Solar Digital Squad Research.

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