BUENAVISTA, Marinduque (PIA) -- Funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Mimaropa, a solar-powered dehydrator has emerged as a game-changer in the agricultural sector of Marinduque. This dehydrator utilizes solar energy and heat from the Malbog hot spring to preserve local commodities.
Traditional sun drying methods, labor-intensive and prone to contamination, have long posed challenges for the farmers and food processors. Moreover, the region's reliance on expensive fuel and electricity, coupled with frequent power interruptions further complicated the drying process.
In response, the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) in Marinduque embarked on a mission to explore alternative power sources. Recognizing the abundance of hot springs in the area, a project was initiated to develop a dehydrator that maximizes the potential of this renewable resource.
This dehydrator has exhibited success in drying various agricultural products including guyabano, serpentina, lagundi leaves, and more recently, saba banana fruits and peels. (Photo courtesy of DOST MIMAROPA)
PSTO-Marinduque collaborated with the private firm Lauro G. Bautista Environmental Commissioning and Balancing Services Inc. (LGBECBSI) to conceptualize and fabricate the prototype dehydrator. Extensive testing revealed that the dehydrator operates optimally within a temperature range of 30 to 48 °C, perfectly aligned with the heat provided by the hot springs.
The dehydrator maximizes the utilization of natural resources for its operation. The heat from the hot spring serves as the primary heating element, while solar energy powers the pumps, fans, and control system, making the entire process more sustainable and cost-effective.
Throughout the testing phase, the prototype dehydrator has exhibited success in drying various agricultural products including guyabano, serpentina, lagundi leaves, and more recently, saba banana fruits and peels.
The introduction of this solar-powered dehydrator has garnered tremendous support from local officials and stakeholders. Gov. Presbitero Velasco, Jr. of Province of Marinduque, emphasized the potential of the technology, stating, "We produce a lot of agri-products that can be preserved and we can convert it into a finished product. We will be able to help our farmers gain much income from it."
