A small island barangay in Iloilo is set to benefit from renewable energy as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 6 rolls out its pilot wind turbine project under the Driving Advancement, Generating Access, and Transforming Small Island Communities (DAGAT) initiative.
In a Philippine News Agency report, DOST-6 assistant director for technical operations Keithlyn Sarah Bernardino said Barangay Botlog in the municipality of Concepcion will receive a small-scale wind turbine to generate electricity.
Installation of the wind turbine began last year and is expected to become fully operational by 2025.
Bernardino emphasized that if successful, the project could be replicated in other small island communities with limited access to traditional power sources.
The project, launched in partnership with Central Philippine University, Northern Iloilo State University Affiliated Renewable Energy Center, and the Concepcion local government, aims to showcase the potential of locally developed renewable energy solutions.
“In this pilot project, we want to demonstrate that we have the capability in the region to produce this kind of technology and prove its effectiveness in providing renewable energy to our island barangays,” Bernardino said.
While the wind turbine will not be able to power individual households, it will provide electricity for key public infrastructures, including the barangay hall, gymnasium, church, daycare center, and streetlights.
DOST-6 also integrated disaster risk reduction training for the community, conducting sessions on preparedness, basic first aid, and emergency planning.
With the growing need for sustainable energy in remote areas, projects like this highlight the role of renewable technology in bridging the electricity gap and improving community resilience.
As the wind turbine in Barangay Botlog takes shape, other communities facing similar energy challenges may soon follow. How can renewable energy projects transform small islands across the country? Join the discussion and share your thoughts on sustainable solutions for off-grid areas at Power Philippines.
There are no comments
Add yours