DECEMBER 6. 2025 Sta. Maria, Bulacan — today marks the official launch and deployment of Watt-A-Ride, a community-owned, mobile solar-powered charging station by 350 Pilipinas, Polytechnic University of the Philippines Institute of Technology, and its Electrical Engineering Technology students. The initiative underscores the university’s commitment to climate adaptation, renewable energy innovation and sustainable mobility.The event takes place on December 6, 2025 at the The Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta. Maria Campus Bulacan.
Watt-A-Ride’s concept aimed to strengthen resilience at the campus and within surrounding communities. As a mobile solar-powered charging station, it provides reliable, off-grid energy that can be deployed on campus or during emergencies. Equipped with solar panels, and charging ports, its key feature of the project is the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) as the transport mode for moving the charging station, demonstrating a sustainable and low-emission approach to logistics within the campus.
“Decarbonization in a local context means communities working together to create solutions that fit their capacities and needs. By integrating solar power and electric mobility, we are proving that renewable energy systems can be accessible, adaptable, and community-owned,” said Jawo Jayme, Campus Engagement Campaigner for 350 Pilipinas. “This is a testament to how youth can lead climate adaptation efforts that directly impact and strengthen their own communities,” he added.
Designed with both everyday use and disaster response in mind, Watt-A-Ride will support PUP students in their daily academic needs while also serving as an emergency energy source during typhoons, prolonged outages, or communication disruptions. The unit can charge mobile devices and power small essential equipment, making it a critical tool for community preparedness.
The project highlights the creativity and engineering expertise of PUP students and strengthens the role of locally developed renewable energy technologies in advancing environmental sustainability, climate adaptation, and grassroots innovation.
Prior to this launch, 350 Pilipinas and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines had already deployed two solar charging stations at the PUP Institute of Technology (Itech) and the PUP Main Campus. Both stations were developed by students and faculty in partnership with 350 Pilipinas, providing free charging services to students and the wider university community. These initial projects offered valuable insights and demonstrated the feasibility of expanding solar-powered charging systems to PUP’s extensions and branches—paving the way for the deployment of Watt-A-Ride at PUP Sta. Maria, Bulacan. ####
For media inquiries, interviews, or coverage arrangements, please contact: Nadia Cruz | +639770130207