DCWD uses solar power for the new reservoir facility

First solar powered DCWD facility

Davao City Water District will soon start operating its twin reservoirs with a total capacity of 1,360 cubic meters at Barangay Cuchon in Tugbok District to expand water service and improve water supply of existing water connections in Riverside Water Supply System.

DCWD general manager Edwin V. Regalado said that the reservoir will be the first of DCWD’s facilities to operate using solar power. Since it is the first of its kind, it is still subject to further observations.

However, upon initial assessment, DCWD’s investment on solar panel in this project is considerably much cheaper as compared to applying for electrical pole installation and clearing of obstructions. DCWD opted to use alternative source of energy because of unavailability of power lines in the area.

In addition, DCWD also estimates to save on electric cost based on computed return of investment for said facility compared to six years computed bill which would amount to P47,520 every year.

The four 250-watts solar panels are attached to the roof of the reservoir’s guard house and generate one kilowatt of direct current power. The generated power will then be delivered to the 3KVA inverter/charger which will charge the four 200AHr battery and invert the direct current produced to alternating current which is the requirement of the electrical system at the site. Said generated energy is enough to power the operation of the reservoirs.

The solar panel project which costs PhP 262,925 was completed by Araw Power Systems Philippines January this year while site development done by DCWD was completed first quarter this year. (Jovana Cresta T. Duhaylungsod)