Davao Oriental explores innovative and non-traditional strategies to resolve energy and water shortage issues
In a bid to improve the long-term energy and water situation in Davao Oriental, the EōS Organization has proposed a comprehensive package of clean and sustainable technologies. This proposal, which is at no cost to the provincial government, aims to address the province's energy and water challenges with climate resilience and affordability as core principles.
The energy challenges in Davao Oriental have been manifested through high electricity costs and frequent outages, largely due to demand growth and aging infrastructure. The EōS solutions seek to enhance energy reliability and affordability by deploying a mix of innovative, alternative technologies. These include desalination, hydro-pumped storage, solar power, waste-to-energy (WTE), and nuclear power solutions, all tailored to the province's needs and resource availability.
Water security in Davao Oriental is also under threat due to reliance on groundwater and climate change impacts. These risks are posing a risk of water stress in some areas of the province, particularly due to the depletion of aquifers. To mitigate these risks, EōS proposes sustainable water management and desalination technologies.
The Governor of Davao Oriental, Nelson L. Dayanghirang, sees this proposal as a vital opportunity to resolve the province's longstanding energy and water issues. He is committed to providing clean, reliable, and affordable access to essential services for all residents and has called on all municipal mayors and concerned officials from every town in the province to actively participate in all planning and consultation phases.
To sustain the initiative, the provincial government plans to create an Energy Code and a Water Code as frameworks for climate-resilient development. They will also establish a Provincial Water Governance Board, promote watershed protection, declare protected areas, and support research for evidence-based policymaking.
The EōS Organization, a global firm specializing in sustainable energy, water, and infrastructure, has demonstrated successful projects in the Philippines and other countries. Their commitment to helping address Davao Oriental's water and energy challenges is evident in the Zero CapEx Model they have proposed. This model is seen as a means to reduce cost while achieving greater benefits for the people of Davao Oriental.
As the initiatives are still in the early stages, the provincial government is moving forward with the formulation of codes and boards to address the province's energy and water challenges. The Governor, along with EōS, is optimistic about the potential of these solutions to provide a reliable power supply and safe drinking water for the constituents of Davao Oriental.
