A barangay in Mangaldan, Pangasinan has begun using solar power to run public facilities, a move officials said will reduce electricity costs and ensure essential services continue during power outages.

Barangay Poblacion recently installed a solar power system that now supplies electricity to several facilities. The barangay hall also serves as a charging station for residents whenever power interruptions occur.

Barangay officials expect the installation of the 16-watt solar panels to cut the village's monthly electricity bill by about 50%.

Barangay Councilman Jose George Fabia said the system has already been tested and is fully operational, with only the battery component still awaiting delivery from abroad.

“Hinihintay na lang namin 'yung battery from abroad, pero na-testing na namin, so nasusupplyan niya 'yung lahat sa barangay hall,” he said.

The hybrid solar installation includes an electrical system and circuit breaker that supply power to the barangay hall, gymnasium, and other electrical facilities.

The project is being implemented in two phases using the barangay's development fund. The second phase includes the installation of solar-powered street lights.

Fabia said the goal is to eventually make the barangay's electricity consumption nearly free.

“Nakaplano na 'yan para pag na-supplyan niya 'yan lahat, overall free na 'yung kuryente talaga,” he said.

Barangay Chairperson Vilma Galban said the planned street lights will improve public safety, especially during the rainy season when power outages are common.

“Tag-ulan, palaging brownout kaya kailangan ng ilaw sa kalsada para iwas sa mga magnanakaw,” she said.