More households in Pangasinan are turning to solar power systems as residents look for ways to cut electricity costs following continued increases in power rates.

Homeowners said installing solar panels has helped reduce their monthly expenses, especially during periods of high electricity consumption.

Several types of solar power systems are now being used in homes, including on-grid setups, where solar panels are directly connected to the utility grid without batteries; off-grid systems, which rely solely on solar panels and batteries; and hybrid systems that combine solar panels, batteries, and electricity from local power distributors.

For some residents, the shift to solar energy has already brought significant savings.

Danny Tandoc, a homeowner in Dagupan City who installed an on-grid solar setup, said his monthly electricity bill dropped by more than P3,000.

“Pag tinitingnan ko naman ’yung meter, hindi naman gumagalaw. So definitely, sa solar kami nakakakuha,” Tandoc said.

As more consumers explore solar energy, power distributors are also encouraging residents to understand the proper process for installation, particularly for on-grid and hybrid systems.

Engr. Rodrigo Corpuz, general manager of the Central Pangasinan Electric Cooperative (CENPELCO), explained that consumers who want to connect their solar systems to the power grid must comply with net metering rules.

“‘Yung sinasabi natin na net metering rules, ’yon ’yung naggo-govern sa mga existing consumers natin na may installed kilowatt hour meter at gusto nilang partial ’yung kaniyang consumption ay sila rin ’yung mag-produce through rooftop solar panel,” Corpuz said.

Under the Energy Regulatory Commission’s net metering program, consumers can sell excess electricity generated by their solar panels back to the power grid in exchange for credits that lower their electricity bills.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) warned the public against unsafe do-it-yourself solar panel installations.

Fire Safety Inspector FO1 Jonathan Jovellanos of the Dagupan City Fire Station advised homeowners to consult licensed electricians before installing solar systems to avoid electrical hazards.

“Ikonsulta muna sa lisensyadong electrician para ma-calculate ’yung tamang wires, breakers na gagamitin sa pagkakabit ng solar,” Jovellanos said.

Authorities said proper installation and compliance with safety standards remain important as more households invest in alternative energy sources.