Project Showcases New Source of Clean Power
An exciting new project in Burauen, Leyte is showcasing the use of irrigation canals to produce renewable power.
The Daguitan solar micro-hydro micro-grid is the culmination of a public-private partnership showcasing a breakthrough idea to combine hydro and solar technologies to produce clean power. The project won the first Technology Innovation Challenge sponsored by the Asian Development Bank and showcases the seamless integration of a 5-kwp Helios PowerWheel with a 5-wkp solar-power and batteries. It is supported by Asian Development Bank (ADB) Innovation Hub, National Irrigation Administration (NIA), DORELCO and Camp Kawayan resort and has been hailed as the future of renewable energy in the country.
Mory Houshmand, Helios Altas Chief Operating Officer explained that as challenges with climate and fossil fuels cost mount globally, innovation and unconventional thinking must drive the quest for renewable energy sources. “Our technology is one alternative that, once scaled up and combined with other renewable power options, can turn irrigation canals, open streams and most other flowing water sources into clean power,” he said.
For Erel Narida, One Renewable President / CEO, “ Since access to energy is one of the key determinants of economic growth, harnessing the untapped power of existing canals to generate power and support post-harvest facilities presents a solution for agricultural communities. It can go a long way to increase the value of farm produce and nurture our new generation of farmers to ensure the nation’s food security.”
