The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) revived its micro-hydropower plant at the Gabaldon Campus on November 11, 2026, restoring a source of renewable electricity after nearly a decade of inactivity and providing engineering students with a functional learning laboratory.

“I find it inspiring that something as natural as flowing water can be turned into a source of energy and learning,” NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo said at the inauguration.

Project leader Engr. Nathaniel Oliveros explained that the plant’s cross-flow turbine powers a 16 kVA generator. He estimated its power output at approximately 11 kilowatts, with an operating efficiency of 70 to 75 percent.

NEUST, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Central Luzon, established the plant in August 2011 to demonstrate how the campus could generate, distribute, and utilize electricity from flowing water.

However, the facility ceased operations in December 2016 after typhoons and other natural disasters caused technical and operational problems.

The rehabilitation was led by Engr. Oliveros and Dr. Jean Guillasper, NEUST Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training, and officially commenced on August 12, 2026.

The first phase covered equipment repairs and reinforcement of the mini-dam that supplies water to the plant, while the second phase focused on electrical system improvements.

“This is your laboratory,” Dr. Jugo told students, saying the plant would let them see firsthand how research and technology can help address problems involving electricity and water.

Dr. Jugo also highlighted the importance of identifying a suitable site for the mini-dam in restoring the facility. She reaffirmed NEUST’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with DOST in pursuing research initiatives that benefit students and communities.

For his part, Gabaldon Campus Director Dr. Franklin Dumayas urged the campus community to help preserve and maintain the facility so it could continue serving as a learning laboratory for students. 

Speaking on behalf of Mayor Jobby Emata, Gabaldon Municipal Administrator Ricardo Subido recalled how the plant provided an alternative source of electricity during local power interruptions before its shutdown. He noted that the facility also served residents who needed to charge their mobile phones and stay connected during power outages.

DOST Central Luzon Regional Director Dr. Julius Caesar Sicat reaffirmed the department’s continued support for NEUST and encouraged the university to seek DOST assistance in establishing a renewable energy research center.

He also challenged NEUST to use its metal fabrication center to develop affordable equipment that communities could adapt to their energy needs.

Meanwhile, DOST Undersecretary for Special Concerns Dr. Teodoro Gatchalian emphasized that the facility could serve as a model for other institutions pursuing renewable energy initiatives. He encouraged the project team to explore the integration of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in future system upgrades.

He likewise called on local leaders and residents to protect the forests that sustain water resources essential to communities and facilities such as the Gabaldon micro-hydropower plant.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Guillasper cited the university’s GUNITA Program, which documents biodiversity at the Gabaldon Campus to guide conservation and complements the call to protect the forests and water sources the plant depends on.

She also cited NEUST’s REVIVE renewable energy program and said the team had prepared a proposal for further improvements to the plant.

Engr. Oliveros added that the team was considering the installation of battery storage systems, automated controls, and real-time remote monitoring capabilities, subject to funding availability.

Also present during the inauguration were DOST Nueva Ecija Provincial Director Dr. Leidi Mel Sicat and Dr. Oscar Barawid Jr., Vice President for Administration of Aurora State College of Technology.

NEUST officials in attendance included Engr. Allan Abenoja Jr. of the Infrastructure Development Office; Dr. Marilou Pascual of the Training Department; Dr. Marivic Villegas of the Extension Services Department; Engr. Jeric Aduna of the College of Engineering; and Prof. Adiza Dela Cruz of the College of Agriculture.

Faculty members and students from the College of Engineering, personnel from NEUST Building Maintenance and General Services, and Gabaldon Campus faculty and staff also attended.

With the facility restored, NEUST is poised to utilize the micro-hydropower plant to help meet part of the Gabaldon Campus’s daily electricity demand while providing students and faculty members with a functional facility for hands-on instruction, research, and innovation in renewable energy.

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