BUSINESS
Advocates Philippines
Meralco: We Support Solar-But Safety Comes First
FILE
Power distributor Meralco clarified that it is not against solar or renewable energy (RE) installations, amid circulating claims suggesting otherwise.
The company emphasized that it supports the growth of rooftop solar and continues to promote programs like net metering. However, it raised concern over the increasing number of unregistered and improperly installed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which may pose serious safety risks.
Meralco spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga addressed the issue in a statement, saying:
“For the record. Para malinaw sa lahat and I reiterated this in some interviews. Meralco is not against RE/ solar PV installations, in fact this is encouraged as we continue to push for Net Metering installations. What we do not want is a rise in incidents that risk public safety, cause accidents such as fires, borne out of unregistered and unsafe installations.”
He also pushed back against claims that the company is blocking solar adoption.
“Problema it seems the narrative is being twisted to make it appear we are against this technology and that we have the power to stop these installations. We do not have that power contrary to the lies being peddled.”
Meralco said customers are encouraged to inform the company about their solar installations to ensure safety and grid stability.
According to the advisory, improperly installed systems may lead to electrical fires or electrocution. There are also risks to line workers, especially if solar systems do not have proper shut-off features during maintenance activities.
The company added that incorrect installations can also affect the quality of electricity in surrounding areas, potentially causing fluctuations or even power interruptions.
“Be empowered with the right information,” Meralco said, urging customers to follow proper procedures and safety guidelines when installing solar systems.
Zaldarriaga also warned against the spread of false information, noting that there are laws such as cyberlibel that may apply to those who deliberately spread misleading claims.
Meralco reiterated that it supports the development of renewable energy, including rooftop solar and net metering, but stressed that installations must be done safely and responsibly.
The company emphasized that it supports the growth of rooftop solar and continues to promote programs like net metering. However, it raised concern over the increasing number of unregistered and improperly installed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which may pose serious safety risks.
Meralco spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga addressed the issue in a statement, saying:
“For the record. Para malinaw sa lahat and I reiterated this in some interviews. Meralco is not against RE/ solar PV installations, in fact this is encouraged as we continue to push for Net Metering installations. What we do not want is a rise in incidents that risk public safety, cause accidents such as fires, borne out of unregistered and unsafe installations.”
He also pushed back against claims that the company is blocking solar adoption.
“Problema it seems the narrative is being twisted to make it appear we are against this technology and that we have the power to stop these installations. We do not have that power contrary to the lies being peddled.”
Meralco said customers are encouraged to inform the company about their solar installations to ensure safety and grid stability.
According to the advisory, improperly installed systems may lead to electrical fires or electrocution. There are also risks to line workers, especially if solar systems do not have proper shut-off features during maintenance activities.
The company added that incorrect installations can also affect the quality of electricity in surrounding areas, potentially causing fluctuations or even power interruptions.
“Be empowered with the right information,” Meralco said, urging customers to follow proper procedures and safety guidelines when installing solar systems.
Zaldarriaga also warned against the spread of false information, noting that there are laws such as cyberlibel that may apply to those who deliberately spread misleading claims.
Meralco reiterated that it supports the development of renewable energy, including rooftop solar and net metering, but stressed that installations must be done safely and responsibly.
May 8, 2026
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