HYDRO POWER FACILITY INAUGURATED IN AURORA

MARIA AURORA -- Senator Edgardo J. Angara today led the inauguration and ceremonial switch-on of a micro-hydro power project he initiated in his home province Aurora.

This is the first small-scale hydro-power facility to generate and sell electricity to the province's main power provider, Aurora Electric Cooperative (AURELCO).

"What this tells us is that we can develop small-scale renewable energy sources that can generate electricity for far-flung rural communities. This will promote clean energy in the countryside," he said.

The 35-kW Dimotol micro-hydropower project has a projected annual generation of 176 Megawatt hour (MWh), according to Director Mario Marasigan of the Renewable Energy Management Bureau.

A clean source of energy, it will displace the fuel equivalent of 303.45 barrels of oil and will help reduce carbon emissions.

Angara, main author and sponsor of the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, said renewable energy can spur the growth of clean industries and create green jobs in the countryside, since many renewable fuels are rural-based.

"I am especially happy about this development as this takes us one step closer to Aurora's goal of remaining green through clean energy," he said.

Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Jose C. Ibazeta and Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) President Antonio M. Cailao signed a Memorandum of Agreement effecting the transfer of the ownership and supervision of the facility to Maria Aurora Mayor Ariel S. Bitong.

The revenue generated will be dedicated to the operation of the facility, electrification, livelihood and education and health projects for the residents of the upland barangays Dianawan, Decoliat, Galintuja & San Juan and the Ilongot-Bugkalot Tribe.