The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) has formalized its partnership with DOST XI, Oro Energy Resources Corporation (OERC), and AGAK Marketing Cooperative (AMC) on a project “MICROGRIDTERPRISES in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) through Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST).”
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed by Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., University President, and was witnessed by Dr. Roger C. Montepio, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension; Mr. Christian Paul F. Escarian, Research Center Manager of the Geospatial, Internet of Things, Solutions, and Technology Engineering Research Center (GIST-ERC) of the College of Engineering; Engr. Nikka Samantha A. Basan, Project Leader for USeP; and Engr. Pherly Grace I. Bungao, Study Leader Representative.
This two-year collaboration aims to accelerate the implementation of microgrid renewable energy technology for the electrification of the geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas in the Davao Region, specifically in Kapalong and Talaingod, Davao del Norte, and Compostela and Maco, Davao de Oro. As part of this initiative, the College of Engineering will conduct “MICROGRID in GIDA” to assess the feasibility of community-based biomass and micro-hydro power plants. Moreover, the project is also set to provide solar powered sets in identified areas through extension efforts in identified GIDAs.
