MANILA, Philippines — The Senate has officially inaugurated its first solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging station, signaling a strong institutional commitment to sustainable transportation and the successful rollout of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA).
The launch, held on Monday, January 26, 2026, coincided with the celebration of the International Day of Clean Energy, highlighting the legislative chamber’s move toward greening its own operations.
Green Infrastructure in the Senate The project represents a practical application of renewable energy technology within a government facility:
- The Setup: The station features two 7-kilowatt chargers integrated with 36 bifacial solar panels. These panels have been installed on the roof of the Senate canteen to harness solar energy efficiently.
- Service: The station provides free renewable energy for electric vehicles owned by senators, Senate officials, and employees.
- Completion: The project was finished on January 22, 2025, and was spearheaded by the Senate’s Maintenance and General Services Bureau.
Supporting the EVIDA Law By establishing this facility, the Senate aims to set a precedent for other government agencies and private establishments to comply with Republic Act 11697 (EVIDA).
- Mandated Transition: The EVIDA law requires government agencies and certain private sectors to ensure that at least 5% of their fleets are comprised of electric vehicles within a specified timeframe.
- Infrastructure Support: One of the primary hurdles to EV adoption in the Philippines has been the lack of charging infrastructure. The Senate’s move is seen as a “proof of concept” that solar-powered charging can be successfully integrated into existing government buildings.
Broader Sustainable Goals The inauguration was attended by senior administrative and technical officials who emphasized that the project is just one part of a larger push toward sustainable practices. Beyond the charging station, the Senate has been exploring other “green” initiatives, including the use of energy-efficient lighting and water conservation systems.
“This is not just about charging cars; it’s about shifting the mindset of our public servants and the public toward a cleaner, more sustainable future,” a Senate representative noted during the event. The initiative is expected to encourage more Senate staff and officials to transition to electric vehicles, knowing that a reliable and clean charging source is available at their workplace.