ILOILO — An off-grid island barangay in Concepcion town is now drawing power from the wind.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Western Visayas inaugurated a small-scale wind turbine on Botlog Island, a project expected to immediately improve lighting, basic services, and daily life for residents long cut off from the electricity grid.
The wind turbine, switched on December 19, was installed in Barangay Botlog through a collaboration among DOST Region 6, local government units, and state universities, addressing the long-standing power limitations faced by the island due to its remote location and the absence of conventional utility infrastructure.
Developed by engineers and researchers from Central Philippine University (CPU) and Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), the turbine is capable of powering 11 coastal lights across the barangay, according to CPU engineer Kleio Alfric Tobias.
The system converts wind energy into electricity, providing a stable renewable source for essential community needs.
The electricity generated is now being used to run streetlights, supply power to a local day care center, and operate a charging station at the Barangay Hall — services that local officials say enhance safety, education, and basic connectivity, especially after dark.
Funding for the project came from DOST and the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), highlighting the government’s push to deploy practical renewable energy solutions in underserved and off-grid communities.
Concepcion Mayor Milliard Villanueva thanked DOST and partner institutions for bringing the project to fruition, describing it as a potential driver of local development.
“Enhanced access to electricity is expected to improve the island’s educational outcomes due to better study conditions, and improve residents’ daily life,” Villanueva said.
The Botlog Island project also supports the country’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 7, which promotes access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the wind turbine contributes to climate resilience while meeting immediate community needs.
With the system now operational, stakeholders said the next steps include monitoring its performance and exploring similar renewable energy projects that can be replicated in other off-grid and island communities across the Philippines./PN
