The increasing demand for electricity and fuel, along with the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs), and the growing concern about climate change are critical issues worldwide. In line with the commitments made in the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, the Philippine government pledged to decrease its GHG emissions by 70% by 2030. As part of this effort, the Department of Agriculture signed a joint Memorandum Circular on February 22, 2021, to strengthen, develop, and promote the integration of Renewable Energy into agri-fisheries sector programs and projects.
One of the renewable energy projects with a significant impact on the agri-fisheries sector is Micro-hydro Power (MHP) System. MHP is a small-scale renewable energy setup that generates electricity by harnessing the energy of flowing water, typically ranging from 1 kW to 100 kW in capacity. These systems, which utilize the kinetic energy of water streams, usually consist of a turbine, generator, and control unit, providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly source for rural electrification.
In collaboration with the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE) and the Department of Energy (DOE), ATI-RTC-CAR conducted a training program on the Design, Installation, Operation, and Maintenance of Micro Hydro Power (MHP) Systems from April 29, 2024, to May 03, 2024, at ATI-RTC-CAR, BSU Compound, La Trinidad, Benguet. The training was attended by 30 Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers (ABEs) from various DA Implementing Agencies, including DA-RAED from the different regions of the country, BSWM, BAFE, and Local Government Units of the Cordillera Administrative Region. The main objective of the training was to enhance the competency of ABEs in designing, operating, and maintaining Micro-Hydro Power (MHP) Systems effectively.
In his message, Engr. Arioder Rico, BAFE Director, highlighted the importance of the training as part of the program of DA and DOE in promoting sustainable power supply to remote areas and encouraged participants to participate in the advocacy as they learn from the training.
He said, βLet us embrace this opportunity to explore the world of Micro Hydro Power Systems, together, as we strive to enhance our capabilities on sustainable energy solutions. I encourage you all, to approach this training with enthusiasm and an eagerness to learn as you work towards a more environmentally conscious and energy-efficient future.β
Meanwhile, Maximino Aromin, OIC-Assistant Center Director of ATI-CAR graced the event to welcome all the participants from the Regional Agriculture Engineering Division of CAR, Regions 1 to 13, as well as from the Bureau of Soil and Water Management and resource speakers from DOE and Sibol ng Agham at Teknolohiya Inc.
During the training, participants visited a Mini Hydro Power System installed at Sitio Asin, Nangalisan, Tuba, Benguet, on the third day. This hands-on activity provided them with an opportunity to evaluate and assess the existing mini hydro system and prepare observations and recommendations to improve the management and operation of the MHP. These findings were presented during the fourth day of the training and critiqued by experts from various fields, namely Ms. Fellicia Eira Reyes (Geologist), Engr. Mac Jayson Diaz of the Department of Energy, and Engr. Jeymart Erasquin from Sibol ng Agham at Teknolohiya, Inc.
Furthermore, Engr. Gliceria Dulnuan of PLGU-Ifugao shared her learnings from the training, highlighting the design considerations and regulations in building MHPS.
βAs for me, on this training on Micro Hydro Power System I gain deep understanding of the technical, social, and environmental aspects involved in implementing and maintaining such systems within the area. And I learned about the local regulations, community engagement strategies, and technical design considerations of the project for the sustainability of the project,β Engr. Dulnuan shared.
Also, Engr. Jerson Pagador of Bureau of Soil and Water Management stated his realization of the potential impact of establishing efficient MHPS in the country.
βI understand that MHPS have a great impact, especially in the remote areas wherein there is no grid electricity, therefore, there is a need to implement and establish more MHPS in many parts of the country. In this regard, I want to use my knowledge and skills gained from this training to contribute and help for the establishment of many MHPS in remote areas in the Philippines,β Engr. Pagador stated.
Mr. Charlie Sagudan, Training Center Director of ATI-RTC-CAR, delivered his message of support to the training. βOur level of mechanization is currently low at 2.31 hp/ha for rice and 1. 23 hp/ha for all crops. As our Agricultural and Biosystems Engineer, you play a pivotal role in enhancing our farming systems through mechanization. The integration of Microhydro Power (MHP) Systems is just one avenue through which we can elevate our agricultural infrastructure. This technology not only facilitates irrigation in our farms but also fosters the generation of environmentally friendly electricity in our remote communitiesβ.//Ezra James Felix
