UP Visayas Launches 54kW Solar Grid System, Advocates Renewable Energy

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MIAGAO, Iloilo — The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) Regional Research Center (RRC) has officially activated its largest solar photovoltaic (PV) grid-tie system, marking a significant step towards renewable energy adoption in the region.

The 54-kilowatt solar PV system, which was installed at the UPV RRC building, is the first of its kind in the university and uses Top Tier 1 Bloomberg-rated solar panels. These high-quality panels are expected to provide reliable, cost-saving energy for years, reducing the university’s carbon footprint and slashing its electricity bills.

UPV officials and stakeholders gathered for the turnover ceremony on October 8, where Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, Prof. Encarnacion Emilia S. Yap, highlighted the long-term impact of the solar panels.

“The installation of solar panels is an essential move for UPV RRC, not only as a sustainable and renewable energy source but also in terms of reducing the university’s operational costs over time,” said Yap.

UPV RRC Director Dr. Mary Grace C. Sedanza provided an in-depth overview of the project, explaining that the solar PV system would power multiple research facilities within the RRC building, including the Philippine Genome Center (PGC), the Technology Transfer and Business Development Office (TTBDO), and the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEARDAC).

Sedanza emphasized the financial benefits, saying, “These panels will significantly affect the financial aspect of energy consumption in the RRC building. By utilizing solar power, we are lowering our dependence on traditional energy sources, thus reducing expenses.”

The solar project was spearheaded by SunSolar NRG Services, with its president, Engr. Barend N. Luger, personally turning over the system to UPV Chancellor Dr. Clement C. Camposano during the event.

Representatives from various partner organizations also expressed their support. Mr. Arli John Nim, executive assistant to the mayor of Miagao, lauded UPV’s efforts to integrate renewable energy into its operations. “This is an inspiring initiative for other institutions to follow,” he said.

Maria Cristina Cabalhin, vice president for marketing and customer care at MORE POWER Iloilo, and Engr. GC June N. Garanchon, technical services division manager of ILECO 1, both echoed Nim’s sentiments, highlighting the role of clean energy in driving innovation and sustainability in the region.

The solar PV system is now part of UPV’s broader initiative to incorporate green energy solutions and reduce reliance on the local electricity grid. The move aligns with the university’s commitment to promoting sustainable, affordable, and clean energy sources, benefiting both the environment and its research operations.

As institutions in the Philippines increasingly look to renewable energy, UPV’s milestone project serves as a model for integrating cost-effective, environmentally friendly solutions into academic and research facilities. (Written by Ms. Reyna Fe N. Quilantang and Ms. Mary Li R. Nulada, OVCRE)