Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin leads the inauguration of the Energy Sector Emergency Operations Center (ESEOC) and the Mobile Energy System (MES) today, 15 April 2024. These two new initiatives designed to address the need for resilient energy infrastructure and response capabilities in times of crisis are part of the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) $34 million Energy Secure Philippines activity with the Philippine government through the Department of Energy (DOE).
The ESEOC is a centralized energy command hub equipped with the latest technological innovations from Europe and the United States. It is positioned to monitor, assess, and coordinate responses to various energy-related emergencies, including natural disasters, grid failures, and cyber security threats. By leveraging real-time data analytics and predictive modeling, the ESEOC enables proactive decision-making and rapid deployment of resources to mitigate disruptions and safeguard critical infrastructure.
Complementing the ESEOC are the Mobile Energy Systems, a fleet of adaptable and scalable energy solutions designed for rapid deployment in emergencies. These modular systems incorporated renewable energy sources, energy storage, and microgrid technologies to provide reliable power generation and distribution in remote or disaster-stricken areas.
“As climate change escalates, extreme events will continue to come more often, even in greater intensity. Investing in proactive measures that enhance resilience and ensure the continuity of essential services is crucial. We thank the USAID Philippines for this enduring partnership that resulted in this significant breakthrough,” Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla said.
The USAID turned over eight (8) solar-powered MES units to the DOE today. These will be distributed across the various government agencies and local government units. Two of these units are now stationed at the DOE, one of which will be used as backup power for the ESEOC, while the rest will be deployed between June and August of this year. Each unit has 50 kWh battery storage and, upon full charging, can power two (2) television sets, two (2) air-conditioning units, ten (10) lightbulbs, two (2) desktop computers, two (2) laptops, five (5) phone chargers, five (5) electric fans, and one (1) modem for almost 12 hours.
Compared to the conventional diesel generator set, the MES can also be easily deployed during emergencies while its operation and maintenance costs are minimal. Each unit of MES amounts to PhP2.99 million to PhP5.25 million.
“Through initiatives like these, we are proud to lead the way in transforming the energy landscape and building more resilient communities,” the Secretary added.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), an average of twenty (20) tropical cyclones enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) each year, with five (5) of them being the most destructive. When the energy supply chain suffers extensive damage from typhoons and other natural disasters, it often takes days, if not months, to restore power. This was evident after Typhoon Yolanda, which left thousands of households without electricity for nearly two (2) months.
For his part, Energy Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella, who also leads the Task Force on Energy Resiliency (TFER), underscores the DOE’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global resilience, noting that by leveraging advanced technology and strategic partnerships, we are empowering communities to withstand and recover from energy-related emergencies more effectively than ever before.