Ilocos norte: A pioneering solar-powered rice mill in Barangay Juan has significantly reduced its operational costs, enabling a price reduction of PHP10 to PHP20 per sack of milled rice for its customers. This shift is attributed to the mill's adoption of solar energy, which has cut down production expenses.

According to Philippines News Agency, Angelito Dela Cruz, the owner of YILDUN Enterprises Inc., credits the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for their support through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). This assistance helped the business remain competitive amid the energy crisis. In 2024, the company received over PHP2.8 million for the 'Technology Upgrading for Ricemill Using Renewable Energy' project, facilitating the installation of 181 solar panels on the mill's rooftop and enabling a partial transition of its operations to solar power.

The solar transition has led to a decrease in monthly electricity bills from an average of PHP250,000 to approximately PHP150,000. Dela Cruz expressed gratitude towards DOST, highlighting the financial benefits and the ability to pass on savings to consumers through reduced rice prices. He also plans to expand the solar capacity by installing an additional 99-kilowatt solar power system.

The DOST continues to support local businesses like YILDUN Enterprises, promoting the use of science, technology, and innovation for practical business solutions and sustainable agricultural practices. Kent Jerico Ramil, a senior science research specialist at DOST Ilocos Norte, emphasized the importance of green investments for businesses facing rising power costs, citing the Solsona rice mill as a model for efficiency and future readiness.

The SETUP program remains a key initiative by DOST to help micro, small, and medium enterprises enhance their products, services, and operations through technology, boosting their overall competitiveness.