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 Identifying viable alternative
energy sources. The contributions
to our energy production from
renewables and other new fuel sources
are growing at 6% per year according
to BP and will contribute 45% of the
increment in energy production by
2035.

The Philippines's transformation into a unlikely regional powerhouse in renewable

energy hasn't been easy.

Juan Miguel Zubiri, a Philippine senator who authored the Renewable Energy Act of
2008, laughingly describes how the Bureau of Internal Revenue wanted to pick a fight
with him when the Act was passed because of its generous incentives.

These included an income tax holiday for the first seven-years of commercial
operations, low corporate tax of 10 percent for the subsequent 25 years, duty-free
import of machinery and zero value added tax (VAT).

"So I said "you know what, it will come back to the economy anyway"," Zubiri says.

"I'm very proud to say that since we passed the law in 2008, from what used to be just
22 renewable energy projects, we now have 406 projects, either already built or being
constructed," he says.

"In the last four years, we produced about 3 million jobs for engineers, construction
workers all over the country. It's a booming industry."

Long reliant on fossil fuels, The Philippines now meets over a third of its energy needs
through renewable sources.

The frenetic growth has attracted the attention of investors including David Russell, the
chief executive officer of Equis, Asia's largest independent infrastructure fund manager.
The company has commissioned the largest solar farm in Southeast Asia in Cadiz City.
"In the Philippines we've seen over last couple of years, over 1100 megawatts of
renewable energy, just in the wind and solar space installed. That's about two billion
dollars just flying into what was an industry that didn't exist till three years ago," Russell
says.

"What we're seeing going forward is, over the next ten years, and expectation that that
market will grow by about 20 times," he adds.

Still, the growing push towards cleaner energy hasn't been come without detractors.

Some complain that the country's feed-in tariff, offered as an incentive for developers of
clean energy projects, actually made electricity in the archipelago more expensive.

"We have been subsidizing renewable energy," says George Chua, President of the
Federation of Philippine Industries. Chua says as rates for clean energy projects are
locked in for 20 years, users in the country won't be able to enjoy the fall in prices, even
if renewable energy technology gets cheaper.

"We're not against renewable energy, but why do we need to go into technologies that
are not fully developed? We could wait a few more years when they become
commercially viable," Chua says.

Pedro Gerardo San Diego Silo | Getty Images

A windmill located in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, Philippines.

However, 23-year old Leandro Leviste, founder of Solar Philippines is convinced that
renewable energy, particularly solar, can be an affordable source of energy for the
Philippines today, even without subsidies.
"The cost of electricity in the Philippines is twice the cost as it is other countries, while
the cost of a solar panel is the same cost here as it is in other countries. You take the
solar panel costs in other countries, put them here, and solar is just significantly
cheaper than even coal," Leviste says.

"I think that it's just obvious, that solar is in fact going to disrupt the entire power industry
in Philippines, which is the most expensive and inefficient in Asia," he says.

Leviste's company already has a solar farm in Batangas province, and wants to prove
solar energy's viability by building a new 150 megawatt solar farm in the north of Manila,
by the first quarter of next year.

"The solar farm will have batteries, to smoothen the output of intermittent renewable
energy plants, and it will be cheaper than coal. Our claim is that, rather than strapping
our country's energy supplies to 20 more years of dirty fossil fuel, we have a cleaner
alternative," he said

Zubiri, who recently returned to the Philippine senate after his resignation in 2011,
wants to continue to push his green agenda in his next six years in office.

"After a few years of its actual implementation, we see a lot of bottlenecks for the
developers and the consumers. There are agencies with overlapping functions, so
coming back as a senator, I'm going to look at the amendments to the law, or to the
rules and regulations, because there's still a lot of tweaking that can be done," he says.
(PhysOrg.com) -- President Barack Obama has made no secret of his desire to develop a "green economy"
that includes renewable energy projects meant to benefit the environment. He has said that part of the
economic recovery in the U.S. will come from money for, and jobs created by, renewable energy projects.
Around the world, politicians, businesses and scientists are developing the technology that could improve the
cost-efficiency of renewable energy.
One would expect that -- over time -- the costs associated with renewable energy would go down. With fossil
fuels, costs can only go up as the un-renewable sources dwindle and become more scarce even as demand
rises. Here are 5 feasible renewable energy sources that could be developed to help meet world energy needs:
1. Solar: This is perhaps the most recognized renewable energy source. Energy from the sun is captured using
cells made from special materials (silicon is quite popular right now) and then converted into electricity. The
biggest factor in solar cell production is cost. However, with technological advancements solar is becoming
more cost efficient, and high efficiency solar cells are being developed. This is important, since high efficiency
cells are hard to come by. New materials are providing solar cells that are easier to transport and install.
Flexible solar cells can be used for residential use, and building solar arrays is becoming popular. One of the
main factors in efficiency is the fact that solar panels only generate electricity during daylight hours, and can be
hampered by cloudy conditions or pollution. Some sort of storage is needed in order to make full use of solar
power.
However, there are environmental impacts associated with building arrays, since they take up a great deal of
room (which is why deserts are being considered -- but still ecological impacts are a reality). In some areas,
power companies are toying with the idea of renting rooftops and installing solar panels. This way companies
could generate renewable energy that would be theirs, customers could see their costs decrease, and
homeowners would not have to pay for installation. Warehouses would be targeted in larger areas. These types
of projects could help overcoming the cost-efficiency hurdle, while reducing the environmental impact of large
solar installations.
2. Wind: Wind power is growing rapidly, and is becoming a well-recognized renewable energy resource. Using
wind power to turn turbines that generate electricity can provide a cheap source of energy. Building and
maintaining equipment could provide thousands of jobs and cost-efficient and clean electricity. Wind farms,
however, are not particularly popular. They can impact local environment and wildlife, and even provide noise
pollution. Additionally, many people feel that the equipment used obstructs scenic views.
It is possible, however, to construct wind turbines in various sizes. They can be made for single residential use,
and they can be constructed on a large scale as well. Wind power could be used in areas where there is a
great deal of wind, and a lot of open spaces. Technology is making this mode of renewable energy more
efficient and less intrusive, but many still feel that there is a long way to go with wind power.
3. Geothermal: Geothermal energy is extracted from the natural processes of the earth. A great deal of heat is
created below Earth's surface, and efforts are being made to extract and use this power. While the ancient
Romans knew about and used geothermal heating, now Earth's processes are being used to generate
electricity -- going beyond space heating. Geothermal power does not put off greenhouse gases (although
some harmful gases from deep in the earth would be released -- and need to be contained), and it is reliable.
However, it can only be used in areas where there is tectonic activity.
Unfortunately, drilling is involved with geothermal extraction. Additionally, exploration is rather expensive. The
costs of starting a geothermal plant are quite high at the outset, including the piping that would need to be laid
and all the other costs, although a geothermal operation takes up less surface space than a power plant that
uses coal or oil. Fuel is not necessary for a geothermal plant at all. However, once a successful geothermal
plant is established, the long-term cost-efficiency usually makes up for the initial cost outlay.
4. Water: We have been studying water-based renewable energy for quite some time. Hydroelectricity has
been a source of energy for years. However, even though the energy production process does not put off
pollution, there are other environmental concerns associated with the damming of rivers and ecological impacts
stemming from this practice. But hydroelectric power remains one of the more cost-efficient means of
generating renewable energy.
Other water sources are being considered as well. Tidal power is being developed right now as an energy
alternative. Tidal generators placed underwater work in a similar fashion to wind turbines, only they are turned
by currents. While considered environmentally friendly, tidal power will be difficult and expensive to develop,
since it involves placing generators at the bottom of the ocean. These "underwater wind farms" are also likely
to have impacts on sea life.
5. Nuclear: Perhaps the most controversial form of renewable energy is nuclear energy. Electricity is produced
from the energy released by nuclear reactions. While fission (splitting) is the main source used today, interest
continues in developing cold fusion. Currently, though, power plants generating power using nuclear fission are
among the safest plants. They also generate power without emitting pollution. In Europe, France benefits
greatly as its nuclear energy produces the cheapest electricity (according to 60 Minutes).
The biggest drawback that many see with nuclear energy is the waste. Radioactive waste is a concern, since it
is a health hazard and if stored improperly can leach into soil and groundwater. However, with the right kind of
processes, it is possible to recover the waste from the reactions, reclaiming it for further power generation. With
technological advancements, it could be theoretically possible to reclaim up to 95% of the waste from initial
reactions. Right now, though, France leads in nuclear waste recycling with only 28%. Another issue is fear of
sabotage that could result in large-scale contamination. However, nuclear energy is the probably the fastest
method that could be put into practice for energy independence from fossil fuels.
Implementing Renewable Energy
All of these processes would require expense up front. Research and technological developments to advance
the efficiency of renewable energy is expense. Producing the equipment would require a large initial capital
outlay. Additionally, there are some environmental concerns beyond air pollution and global warming with any
of these processes. However, it is thought that the environmental impacts long-term would still be less than
those of continuing to use fossil fuels. Additionally, cost-efficiency would increase, and overall energy costs
would be expected to fall long-term
No one of these renewable energy sources could effect a change, however. It would require coordinated
implementation of a variety of alternative strategies to replace the energy we get from fossil fuels. Assessments
of which types of energy would work best in different locales would be required, and a great deal of planning
would be needed for a successful implementation.

Read more at: https://phys.org/news/2009-05-feasible-renewable-energy-sources.html#jCp

 Energy 101: Renewable Energy in the Philippines
TREES advocates the use of Renewable Energy (RE) by businesses in
the Philippines to help address the global problem of dependence on
fossil fuels, which has been proven harmful to the environment.

By implementing RE and EE (energy efficiency) projects, we help our

clients realize greener wealth. Using RE and EE technology can
significantly reduce your energy consumption, giving you considerable
cost savings. At the same time, you get to contribute towards the
protection of the environment, and help the country reap the many
benefits of RE.

Why Choose Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy technologies may initially require significant capital
investments, but their substantial long-term benefits can outweigh the
costs. These benefits include:

1. COST SAVINGS. RE technologies make use of “free” energy

sources, such as solar energy, biomass energy, waste heat or used
water. This significantly reduces the costs paid for traditional power
sources. Combined with technologies like LED lighting on the demand
side, more cost savings are realized.

RE is also a viable solution for businesses operating off the grid or far
from electricity grids, where energy costs are generally higher.

2. MORE STABLE POWER SUPPLY. RE technology gives businesses a

more stable power supply. Electricity supply from grids often
fluctuates, and in severe weather conditions, may be interrupted
altogether. RE, such as harnessed solar energy or on-site cogeneration
plants, assures a continuous and steady supply of energy. Businesses
operating in remote areas where traditional power supply is erratic or
scarce can especially benefit from RE technologies.

Additionally, global fuel shortages can affect businesses’ power supply

or cause power costs to spike. Using RE technologies can protect
businesses from such unexpected events.
3. ENHANCED CUSTOMER APPEAL. As more and more people
become aware of the impact of climate change, appreciation for
environment protection initiatives has been growing. Consumers look
to businesses to help provide solutions to climate change issues,
knowing that businesses are among the biggest users of energy and
natural resources. Green businesses are thus held in high regard and
develop a loyal customer base, along with industry recognition.

4. ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTION. The implementation of RE

technologies, such as solar and wind energy, is more labor-intensive
compared to traditional energy sources. Thus, the use of RE
contributes to job growth in the country.

Types of Renewable Energy in the Philippines

With the country’s geographical features, renewable energy is seen as
an important economic sector. The various types of traditional
renewable energy in the Philippines include:

Hydropower – generated by dams and run-of-the-river. Hydroelectric

plants may be set up almost anywhere in the Philippines.

Geothermal power – from the country’s rich geothermal energy supply.

Geothermal power plants are suitable in areas where there is low wind
incidence and less rain, such as Mindanao and Batanes.

Solar power – with the country’s abundant sunshine, solar energy has
the potential to be a major power source in the Philippines.

Wind power – a few areas in the country have been harnessing wind
power through wind farms, such as the Bangui Wind Farm in Ilocos
Norte and Pililia Wind Farm in Rizal.

Biomass power – this derives energy from plant and animal sources, of
which the Philippines, being an agricultural country, has a plentiful
supply.

Growth Areas
The country is targeting a 65:35 ratio of traditional power and
renewable energy capacity by the year 2030. At present, RE growth
areas have been identified as follows:

1. In Mindanao, where power supply has been insufficient and where

remote areas are difficult to reach by traditional power grids.

2. Solar power use, with established businesses like SM Investments,

the Ayala Group, Jollibee Foods, and Starbucks looking to install solar
energy systems.

3. Mini hydroelectric plants, which can supply power to smaller

areas.

4. Geothermal plants, which could grow in number and capacity with

more government incentives.

5. Biomass power, which is currently being eyed to power

agriculture-based businesses.

6. Ocean energy, currently the subject of more studies.

Building platforms for renewable energy exploration and reducing the footprint of current
energy practices

Road Congestion Relief

Road Congestion Relief: How Engineers
are Fighting Traffic
Congested roadways are common problems that all drivers have to deal with. Whether
commuting to work or enjoying a leisurely drive through the city, it is a problem that
causes a great deal of stress and unnecessary frustration. However, while it is still a
large problem, many engineers are dedicating their time and resources to identifying
why this problem exists and what they can do to make the problem more manageable
for drivers in everyday situations. By understanding the statistics that surround road
congestion problems, both engineers and drivers will be that much closer to
determining how a solution can be reached. To learn more about how engineers are
helping relieve traffic congestion problems, checkout the infographic below created by
the New Jersey Institute of Technology’s Masters in Civil Engineering Online degree
program.
s
Rising Road Congestion Problems

As more and more people began to purchase personal vehicles, the need for concise
road congestion control began to increase. Roadways across the U.S. needed to become
more versatile and accommodating for drivers, culminating in recent troubling statistics
that encouraged civil engineers to dedicate more time and effort to the problem. In
2013, road congestion increased by six percent, where the average driver would waste
up to forty seven hours in traffic over the course of a year. This was the average for
traffic hours, and there were some cities that were better and worse off over the year.
Los Angeles was described to be the worst city for road congestion, where up to 64
hours per year were wasted by the average driver in traffic. San Jose fared much better
at the bottom of the list, with drivers only spent 36 hours a year in traffic. To solve this
issue, researchers are looking into primary causes for road congestion and how they can
be alleviated.

Reasons for Traffic Congestion

Among the top reasons for traffic congestions were bottlenecks. This accounted for over
forty percent of all congestion incidents, and it occurs when drivers cannot efficiently
use the road, whether due to poor lane width, difficult to navigate merge points, or
different road grades. About twenty five percent of all road congestion problems
occurred from traffic accidents. These included things such as car crashes, disabled
vehicles, and the sudden appearance of hazardous debris. Natural problems accounted
for fifteen percent of all incidents. Things such as negative weather conditions such as
snow or hail and extreme wind comprised this list. The remaining twenty percent were
based around predominantly human and pedestrian factors. Construction projects and
closed roadways made up ten percent of these errors, and the remaining ten percent
was split between malfunctioning traffic lights and other directional problems, and
marathons and large political and sporting event problems.

Alleviating Future Traffic Issues

In order to help alleviate these issues, numerous programs are already being suggested.
Currently, congestion costs over two hundred billion dollars, with wasted fuel and gas
costing upwards of four and a half billion dollars. The average commuter costs per year
are as high as $1,020, translating to 45 wasted hours and 25 gallons of wasted fuel. At
five dollars per gallon, the average fuel cost for such congestion issues is over 22 billion
dollars. With current projected population growth patterns, this issue will only get worse
if steps are not taken as soon as possible to help solve the problem.

Proposed Actions

Among the most popular strategies for helping solve this problem are proposed ways to
open up known congestion areas. Freeway congestion makes up forty percent of all
problems, while the remaining sixty percent is made up by city streets. Studies also
show that trucks contribute to over twenty percent of all urban congestion. Plans are in
effect to help make trucks and other large vehicles more efficient in the way they move
through streets and other areas, helping decrease congestion. Finally, with such plans
available for trucks and buses, plans for public transportation expansion are also in
effect to help optimize time on the road and save money.

Field Technology Developments

In order to further optimize solutions, technological advancements are being made to

provide real time solutions to congestion problems. With active routing information
available, drivers will have more options when it comes to determining the right road to
take. Advances in parking technology can also help make parking much more efficient
and accessible, which will further reduce urban congestion. Developments planned for
the next ten years also involve autonomous vehicles, which can help reduce congestion
and human errors in driving. All of these solutions can help make a difference in
roadways, improving

Reducing traffic congestion Improved Intelligent Transportation System -remote controlled

variable message signs - traffice sensors - cameras Provide exclusive lanes for public
transport mixing land use (residential, commercial , so to have shorter distances that can be
made by walking and cycling) Reducing soil erosion Place erosion control blankets on slopes
Limit vegetation removal to the extent possible Seed bare soils and cover with 2”-4” of straw