CDO Engineer Invents 24/7 Solar-Hydro Technology

Cagayan de Oro City—An electrical engineer in this city has invented a groundbreaking energy technology that promises to deliver uninterrupted solar power. The innovation combines the so-called Hybrid Economic Dispatch System (HED) and the Circular Energy for Hydroplants (CEHP), eliminating the intermittency problem of solar energy systems.

Engineer Cerael Donggay told the DAILY TRIBUNE that the innovations, which he registered with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPO-Phil) and Espacenet, represent a revolutionary shift in renewable energy.

He said this breakthrough paves the way for a future where clean, sustainable energy is accessible to all, enabling the Philippines to reap both environmental and economic benefits.

“The sun never truly sets on the potential of HED and CEHP,” he said.

Donggay, President and CEO of the Green Energy Development Corporation, said the solar power innovation introduced by his company could save the Philippines billions and promises to deliver uninterrupted, 24-hour solar power. This marks a major leap forward in the fight against climate change while offering the country a path to energy independence and significant economic savings.

Switching to solar power using HED and CEHP could translate to substantial savings for the Philippines. With the average cost of coal-fired electricity currently ranging from ₱5 to ₱7 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) (based on an approximate exchange rate of ₱55 to $1), transitioning to a 24/7 solar solution could save the country an estimated ₱75 billion to ₱100 billion annually in avoided fuel costs, assuming stable market prices. This represents a significant boost to the Philippine economy.

"HED and CEHP offer a compelling solution to the world's growing energy needs, addressing critical challenges:

• Continuous Clean Energy: HED provides a reliable, 24/7 power supply, ensuring access to clean energy day and night, regardless of weather conditions. This eliminates the need for fossil fuel backups, significantly reducing carbon emissions," he said.

• Reduced Reliance on Fossil Fuels: By providing a consistent and dependable source of renewable energy, HED dramatically reduces dependence on fossil fuels, a major contributor to climate change. This shift toward clean energy sources is crucial for mitigating the impacts of global warming.

Donggay said the widespread adoption of HED and CEHP has the potential to drastically reduce global carbon emissions, helping to combat climate change and its devastating effects.

Other Benefits:

• Energy Independence: HED empowers nations, particularly the Philippines, to harness their own renewable resources, reducing reliance on foreign energy sources and fostering energy independence. This strengthens national security and promotes economic stability.

• Cost-Effectiveness: By maximizing the efficiency of solar and hydropower, HED offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional energy sources. The integration of CEHP, driven by the decreasing cost of solar technology, further enhances its economic viability.

• Global Adoption Potential: HED is a scalable and adaptable solution that can be implemented worldwide, from tropical regions with abundant sunlight to areas with significant hydroelectric potential. This global applicability makes it a crucial tool in the transition to sustainable energy.

How It Works

HED combines solar and hydroelectric power. During peak sunlight hours, excess solar energy is used to store water in hydroelectric reservoirs, effectively creating a natural energy storage system.

"When the sun sets, this stored water is released to generate electricity, providing a seamless, round-the-clock power supply. CEHP further enhances this process by recycling and reusing water in the hydroelectric cycle, maximizing efficiency and conserving valuable resources," he said.