More than 1,000 residents sought refuge in Tinabanan Cave, climbing up 32 feet of slippery soil and limestone. Lorna dela Pena, who was alone when the super-typhoon hit on Nov 8, recalled the devastation caused by the storm. Despite feeling disoriented, she was able to evacuate to the cave. She mentioned that stairs were not built to access the cave comfortably until after the Haiyan disaster, fulfilling her grandfather's dream. While providing evacuees with hot porridge, Dela Pena realized the vital role that local organizations play in helping communities become more resilient in the face of harsher weather conditions due to global warming. She emphasized the power of unity in assisting those in need, stating that what may seem impossible for one person becomes achievable when everyone comes together. Inspired by this insight, she collaborated with fellow residents in Marabut to establish women's groups dedicated to various causes. These groups now spearhead workshops on organic farming, address issues of violence against women, and promote the adoption of renewable energy among other women in the community. Azucena Bagunas, 47, and dela Pena are part of a group of individuals known as "solar scholars" who have been trained by the Philippines-based Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) to promote low-carbon development and climate resilience. In response to the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan, also known as Yolanda, the women have learned how to operate portable solar-powered generators called TekPaks for use during evacuations. This technology has proven to be life-saving, as it illuminates dark caves like Tinabanan, allowing for easier counting of evacuees and charging of mobile devices to maintain communication. Bagunas recalls a particularly memorable instance when the TekPak was used to power a nebulizer during an asthma attack, ultimately saving a life. Bagunas and dela Pena are educating other women on how to use TekPaks and informing them about the advantages of renewable energy. In Marabut, women make sure their solar-powered devices are charged before a storm hits so they can evacuate their communities safely. Bagunas pointed out that utilizing solar energy is more cost-effective than depending on coal-generated electricity. She emphasized that by using solar power as the primary energy source at home, one can avoid electricity bills altogether, as long as they have a solar panel for affordable and dependable energy. Bagunas also favors solar power as a safer alternative. In June, her brother's house caught fire due to a live electricity wire hitting his roof, causing damage to parts of her own house as well. According to 2020 data from the Department of Energy, the majority of the Philippines' energy still comes from coal and oil, with renewable sources accounting for only about 34%. However, the government aims to increase the use of renewable energy, particularly solar, with a goal of reaching half of power generation by 2040. Chuck Baclagon, Asia regional campaigner for 350.org, praised the efforts of ICSC in bringing solar power to communities as a way to promote clean energy at a local level. Today's current centralized power system, which relies on fossil fuels, is not effectively addressing energy poverty in remote island areas located far from commercial centers. The transition to solar energy challenges the belief that this shift is unaffordable, as fossil fuels are expensive due to being imported and subject to market volatility. In contrast, renewable energy sources like solar can be built locally, tapping into available resources and offering significant potential in specific locations. Oxfam Philippines' resilience portfolio manager Leah Payud expressed support for introducing solar energy in impoverished rural communities, emphasizing the benefits for women and children who are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. She stated that women's unpaid care work and domestic work doubles during disasters, and the burden is increased by the need to find an energy source for these tasks. Women lack access to a clean kitchen and electricity, which makes tasks like cooking and breastfeeding more challenging. She emphasized that women should be involved in expanding the adoption of clean, cheap, and easily available energy due to the direct benefits they can gain. Without the involvement of women, renewable energy initiatives may not be suitable. She concluded by saying that gender justice is essential for climate justice. A good method to introduce women to renewable energy is by having them create a 24-hour clock detailing their household chores and the energy they use, as suggested by Payud. By consulting with Oxfam staff on switching energy sources, women can see how it could make their tasks easier and more relatable. This exercise has shown that many women spend a significant amount of time on unpaid family care work, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. In energy-deprived areas like Suluan Island, women face risks when collecting water after dark, prompting them to rely on solar lights instead of oil lamps for safety and convenience. Payud stated that solar energy is the most reliable energy source in times of disaster, particularly when the main power supply is disrupted and transportation between islands is not possible. Following the aftermath of Haiyan, it took six months to restore electricity in remote communities, a situation that could have been avoided if women had access to alternative energy like solar. According to dela Pena and Bagunas, women play a crucial role in addressing climate change and energy poverty as they are often the first to address and resolve family issues.