MANILA – As more Filipinos explore solar energy for household use, a pro-solar lawmaker on Thursday called on government agencies to crack down on fly-by-night solar power providers and protect consumers from substandard services.

JB Bernos said government must remain supportive of renewable energy while ensuring that consumers are protected from fraudulent operators.

“Of course, we fully support this shift to renewable energy, which is friendlier both to our environment and our wallets over the long term as we rely less on non-renewable sources,” Bernos said.

“But the government, in particular the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Energy, and the Energy Regulatory Commission, must be proactive in going after unscrupulous operators whose only motivation is profit, to the detriment of our consumers.”

Bernos raised concerns over reports of poor-quality solar panel installations, lack of after-sales service and maintenance, and unregistered installations.

He also reminded the public to follow proper procedures when shifting to solar energy, including securing barangay clearance, building permits, electrical permits, electrical inspection certificates, and net metering applications.

“We cannot sacrifice responsibility at the altar of convenience. I urge the public to undergo the correct process when shifting to solar. This is not only for legality’s sake, but more importantly, it minimizes risk and ensures our safety,” he said.

Bernos is the author of House Bill No. 3126, or the On-Grid Solar Energy Systems bill, which seeks to require government offices to install on-grid solar energy systems nationwide.