Vlad Bunoan

Solar fairs expand across Mindanao, bringing rooftop solutions closer to communities

Article (news)

ABS-CBN Lifestyle

<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1777006125446MGS - DAVAO 2025 - 02.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Handout</div>A series of solar fairs is rolling out across multiple cities in Mindanao this year, shifting from large, centralized expos to smaller, mall-based events designed to make renewable energy more accessible to everyday consumers.Organizers of the “Mindanao Goes Solar” campaign said the expanded format responds to rising travel costs and growing interest in rooftop solar, particularly outside major urban centers. By hosting city-based fairs, the initiative aims to bring suppliers and information directly to local communities.“Instead of requiring consumers and suppliers to converge in one or two major cities, the expos are now being brought to them,” organizers said, noting that the approach allows more households to explore solar options and consult providers in person.The fairs will be held in several SM Supermalls locations across Mindanao, including SM City CDO Uptown and SM CDO Downtown Premier from April 24 to 26, followed by stops in Davao City from May 1 to 3 at SM City Davao and SM Lanang Premier.Additional fairs are scheduled for October 23 to 25 at SM City Butuan, SM City General Santos and SM City Zamboanga.A key feature of the events is a verified supplier directory, which organizers said was developed after research showed that some solar installers in the region lacked long-term operations or after-sales support. Only suppliers that have undergone due diligence — including verification of permits and service coverage — are allowed to participate in the fairs.The expos are also free for exhibitors, with organizers covering participation costs to support local solar enterprises facing high logistics and equipment expenses.Set in high-traffic mall spaces, the fairs aim to reach both interested homeowners and casual visitors. Exhibitors are expected to showcase solar panels, inverters, batteries and other components, giving attendees a closer look at how rooftop systems work.Organizers said the initiative is both an educational effort and a lifestyle shift, positioning solar energy as a practical option for households looking to manage electricity costs and adopt more sustainable practices.

A series of solar fairs is rolling out across multiple cities in Mindanao this year, shifting from large, centralized expos to smaller, mall-based events designed to make renewable energy more accessible to everyday consumers.

A series of solar fairs is rolling out across multiple cities in Mindanao this year, shifting from large, centralized expos to smaller, mall-based events designed to make renewable energy more accessible to everyday consumers.