US-based Oceantara Energy Corporation has launched a solar-powered boat in Palawan, Philippines for transportation and delivery of basic services to Coron, Culion, and Busuanga islands in the province.
The solar-powered boat, Adlao Azul is equipped with a US-made battery system and bifacial solar panels, which allows it to cruise for over six hours on clean energy. Additionally, the boat has a cooler and freezer storage for the transport of food, vaccines, medical supplies, and other essential goods for residents on the islands.
The boat was developed at an investment of PHP25 million, under a grant by USAID’s five-year Energy Secure Philippines project, aimed at mobilising investments, deploying modern energy technology, and supporting policy reforms in the country.