National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center
Under the stewardship of the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development and Innovation, the National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center has steadily positioned itself as one of the leading strongholds of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainability research and initiatives, not only within the university but across Northen Luzon. Since its formal establishment as an official arm and directorate of the university in 2022, NBERIC has blossomed into one MMSU’s banner specialized research centers and trademark programs, advancing innovative solutions that respond to the growing demand for clean, resilient, inclusive energy systems.
Anchored on its core agenda and inspired by the SUCCEED legacy of Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., while building on the ACHIEVE vision of Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, deeply inculcated in the hearts of the MMSU community, NBERIC continues to uphold excellence in the areas of research, extension, and innovation. Through its banner initiatives in sustainable bioethanol distillation technologies, nipa bioethanol-based product development, solar energy and battery storage systems, and its strong push for net-zero energy transitions, the center has strengthened its role as a catalyst for sustainable development and community empowerment.
Director
Batac-Paoay Rd., Brgy. 16-S Quiling Sur,
City of Batac, Ilocos Norte,
Philippines 2906
Vision-Mission
It envisions to become a national hub for bioenergy research, training, extension and technopreneurship.
Goal
To develop a synergy of applied community of interest and community of practice on bioenergy research, development, extension, education & technopreneurship for sustainable development and energy self-sufficiency.
Key Functions and Objectives
- To develop a national bioenergy research, development, and extension agenda, plans and programs for all.
- To provide a common platform and modality of bioenergy development initiating and enhancing creativity, innovativeness, competitiveness, progress and dynamic partnerships.
- To determine and identify innovative and challenging potentials of bioenergy technologies, services and outputs for production, profit and marketing.
- To establish, create and capacitate all key players and stakeholders (researchers, educators, development workers, policy makers, and communities) in bioenergy for countryside development through bioenergy research, development, extension, education, training, and technopreneurship.
- To strengthen institutional capacities and competencies of all involved in bioenergy for institutional partnerships and community development.
NBERIC Sections
- Research and Innovation
- Responsible for conducting and promoting research, extension, technology development, and innovation initiatives in the fields of bioenergy and renewable energy. Focuses on microbiology for biofuels development, biomass utilization, waste to energy, solar energy, process improvement, and product development to support sustainable energy solutions. It also facilitates technology generation, validation, and transfer through collaborations with academic institutions, industries, communities, and other stakeholders while utilizing state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities to ensure high-quality research outputs and innovations.
- Technical and Testing Services
- Shall serve as the Center’s primary hub for analytical, testing, and technical support services. It houses state-of-the-art laboratories dedicated to analytical services, motor vehicle and machinery testing, and other specialized technical operations.
- Socioeconomic, Technopreneurship, and Partnership
- Shall serve as the Center’s avenue for social, economic, and techno-business-related studies and support services. It shall also oversee linkages, partnerships, and collaborations with local, national, and international institutions, funding agencies, industry partners, and community stakeholders to strengthen research, extension, technology transfer, and community development initiatives.
- Machineries and Fabrication
- Responsible for the design, fabrication, installation, maintenance, and optimization of distillation and renewable energy facilities of the Center. It also provides technical support and deployment services to partner communities and SUCs, while ensuring the proper maintenance of the Center’s facilities, equipment, utilities, and vehicles through mechanical and electrical services.
- Product Production
- Responsible for the upscaling, pilot production, and commercialization of research-based technologies and products. It ensures proper production processes, quality control, and optimization, while supporting technology validation, product development, and preparation for market and community use.
- Houses 70% ethyl alcohol derived from nipa bioethanol for disinfectant use. It has recently been granted a License to Operate by the Food and Drug Administration, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards for production and distribution.
Director
Batac-Paoay Rd., Brgy. 16-S Quiling Sur,
City of Batac, Ilocos Norte,
Philippines 2906