New website tracks rooftop solar installations – BusinessWorld Online
MANILA-BASED think tank Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) has launched a web-based platform which can estimate and visualize existing and potential rooftop solar installations across the country.
SPECTRUM or the Solar Power Estimation of Capacities and Tracking Using Machine Learning is a solar mapping platform that seeks to strengthen planning, transparency, and policy support for the country’s energy transition.
“Through initiatives like SPECTRUM, we turn research into evidence-based policies that guide national planning and empower local governments to adopt climate-smart standards,” ICSC Executive Director Angelo Kairos dela Cruz said during the launch on Tuesday.
“It also helps the private sector make informed investments and supports electric cooperatives and utilities in deploying renewable energy.”
SPECTRUM uses multi-spectrum bands of satellite images, allowing users to visualize solar rooftop installation and estimate the potential solar capacity across the country.
The platform aims to assist local governments, solar developers, distribution utilities and civil society organizations in identifying opportunities to expand rooftop solar programs, promote net metering adoption, and contribute to increasing the country’s renewable energy share.
“By translating data into actionable insights, we aim to advance sustainable development and resilience at every level,” said Mr. Dela Cruz. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera
