The National Power Corporation (Napocor) of the Philippines is taking steps towards greener energy production by planning to replace its diesel-powered generators in off-grid locations with hydrogen technology.
This move aligns with Napocor’s commitment to transitioning to clean energy at its small power utilities group (SPUG) plants.
As a government-owned and controlled corporation, Napocor plays a crucial role in providing electricity to areas that are not connected to the main power grid. To further their green energy initiatives, Napocor recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) for a comprehensive three-phase study involving green energy and fuel in SPUG areas.
Green hydrogen, as defined by the World Bank, is produced by splitting water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen using renewable electricity. This innovative approach holds great potential for clean and sustainable energy production.
Fernando Martin Roxas, President and CEO of Napocor, emphasized that the partnership with GPCCI offers an opportunity to modernize power systems and reduce emissions. One of the key advantages of transitioning to hydrogen technology is the significant reduction in diesel consumption. Currently, Napocor consumes over 100 million liters of diesel annually for its energy production, a number that can be substantially decreased with the adoption of hydrogen technology.
Napocor currently operates 281 SPUG plants across the country, all of which heavily rely on diesel for operation. However, the corporation has set a goal to achieve a complete shift to renewable energy (RE) by 2028.
With funding from the German Federal Ministry for Environment, Nature Conservation, and Nuclear Safety, the comprehensive study will begin by selecting suitable sites—one for green energy and another for fuel cell technologies. The criteria for site selection include factors such as accessibility to renewable resources, availability of resources, and community support.
By embracing hydrogen technology, Napocor aims to reduce its carbon footprint, enhance energy efficiency, and contribute to the global efforts of combating climate change. The transition to clean and sustainable energy sources represents a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future for the Philippines.
