THE UNIVERSITY of the Philippines Board of Regents has approved renewable energy projects in select areas of the UP Sierra Madre Land Grants.

The initiative aims to generate income for the university, strengthen its land ownership rights, support the National Renewable Energy Program, and enhance UP’s role in climate and energy research.

The projects will cover 3,355 hectares in the Laguna Land Grant, 1,900 hectares in the Laguna-Quezon Land Grant (Area 1), and 60 hectares in LQLG Area 2.

The proposal was presented by UP Vice President for Development Daniel Peckley Jr. and Assistant Vice President Karen Ann Jago-on, with UPLB Chancellor Jose Camacho Jr. and other UPLB officials in attendance.

Land Grant Manager Reynaldo Lorida confirmed that several companies have expressed interest in developing wind, solar, or other renewable energy facilities, following a public call for proposals.

Lorida also stressed that the projects would serve as a hands-on learning facility for energy engineering students while ensuring land conservation and rehabilitation.