To showcase the use of renewable energy, the Department of Science and Technology in Region VII (DOST 7) has installed a Solar Power Charging Kiosk at the entrance of its office in Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City.
“This will enable our clients visiting the office to really appreciate Science and Technology. This is a simple technology that may be very useful for them with or without the existence of electricity. It works like a mobile phone power bank built with a socket to plug the charger of a device, only that it has a bigger capacity and makes use of solar power to charge its batteries,” Department of Science and Technology Regional Director Engr. Edilberto L. Paradela said.
The Solar Power Charging System can simultaneously charge 20 mobile phones, 10 rechargeable flashlights, and two laptops.
The same kiosk was first deployed in Leyte to provide temporary power source in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda. These kiosks were stationed and is still available at Philippine Science High School-Eastern Visayas Campus in Palo, Leyte; Sogod, Southern Leyte; and Brgy. Mancilang, Madridejos, Cebu.
“This equipment is really a perfect match during disasters just like how it helped residents in Leyte after the devastation brought about by Super Typhoon Yolanda. During typhoons and storms, we cannot determine when power will be restored.
This way, DOST 7 has the chance to showcase the use of renewable energy in greening the environment for lesser carbon dioxide (CO2) emission, reduce energy consumption and may contribute in disaster risk reduction,” added Paradela.
The solar power charging system has a 200W capacity which comprises two 100W solar panels; two 70 Ampere-hour solar batteries; one 300W inverter; and one 20 Ampere-hour charge controller. It can simultaneously charge 20 mobile phones, 10 rechargeable flashlights, and two laptops.
