The Negros Oriental State University Affiliated Renewable Energy Center (NORSU AREC) was established in July 2023 through a Memorandum of Agreement, in accordance with the mandates set forth by RA 9513, commonly known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008. This legislation compels the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish non-conventional energy centers within state universities to aid in the implementation, promotion, and commercialization of renewable energy systems. NORSU AREC is committed to this legislative vision, dedicated to advancing the cause of renewable energy. Aligned with the objectives outlined by the DOE through DO2019-03-0007, NORSU AREC is taking a proactive role in driving initiatives and activities aimed at the proliferation and advancement of renewable energy sources.

This inter-agency collaboration between DOE and NORSU will further bolster efforts to promote efficient and sustainable use of energy resources in the Visayas region, significantly contributing to the DOE’s Renewable Energy Roadmap 2040.

The NORSU Affiliated Renewable Energy Center (AREC) has initiated the implementation of three key projects:
1. Review and Assess DOE Renewable Energy (RE) Projects: This involves evaluating existing RE projects within the coverage area and facilitating the completion of required documentation for their closure.

2. Inventory of Non-Commercial RE Systems: Conducting a comprehensive inventory of non-commercial RE systems in the area to better understand and document existing renewable energy resources.

3. Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Campaigns: Performing IEC campaigns to raise awareness and educate the community about the benefits and practices of renewable energy.

Over the past months, significant progress has been made, with various challenges encountered and addressed through necessary adjustments and mitigation measures. The deliverables for each activity are progressing as planned.

The area of coverage for NORSU AREC's three activities includes Regions VI and VII. For the first activity, the focus will be on beneficiaries of the Household Electrification Project (HEP) across 13 municipalities in these regions, namely:

1. Dauin, Negros Oriental
2. Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental
3. Lapu-lapu City, Cebu
4. Daanbantayan, Cebu
5. Medellin, Cebu
6. San Remigio, Cebu
7. Sta. Fe, Cebu
8. Madredijos, Cebu
9. Bantayan, Cebu
10. Camotes, Cebu
11. Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental
12. Himamaylan, Negros Occidental
13. Nueva Valencia, Guimaras