Windmill is a machine which uses wind energy to generate electricity or extract groundwater. Here in the Philippines, we also have our own windmill farm and it can be found in the municipality of Bangui in Ilocos Norte. It is also said to be the first power generating windmill farm in Southeast Asia. The project was named NorthWind Bangui Bay Project (oftenly called as the
Bangui Windmills).
How did we get there?The hotel we stayed-in offers a complete Ilocandia tour (Ilocos Norte and Sur). As for our group of 5, we paid 2,990 pesos/pax (price varies depends on the head count) which includes a private aircon van transportation to Laoag-Vigan-Pagudpud, a hotel accommodation for 2 days and 2 nights, a daily set of breakfast, entrance fees, toll fees, driver's meal, and as well as airport transfers. Airfare is not included. Oops, before I forgot, the name of the hotel is UKL Ever Hotel and it is located in Laoag City. It is also 15 minutes away from the airport.
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Sun down but the beauty of this site still not fading
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Going back, there are different stations of windmills in
Bangui, Ilocos Norte. There are Phase 1 and Phase 2 which are spread along and facing the coastal line of South China Sea. Bangui Windmills was said to be providing 40% of source power in the province of Ilocos Norte. That is why the government is now on their feet constructing Phase 3 that will add more windmills and will generate of course more power.
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| As always... group shot! |
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| I envy this local... |
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| So lucky to visit this place!!! |
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Its getting dark now
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Though the main purpose of this project is to practice and utilize renewable energy sources such as the wind, the site itself has become a tourist attraction as well. It is mainly one of the reason why tourism in Ilocos has boomed. Who wouldn't be amaze to see those towering electric-fan-like structures? Seeing 20 windmills in Phase 1 lined up and having a size of 70-metre (230 ft) high each is such a stunning scene to witness. Standing in front of these windmills makes me feel like an ant. Plus, not to mention that it is situated on a beach front. Imagine walking on the shore while waves and wind splashes on your body. Refreshing!
There is no entrance fee when visiting the area. Everyone is invited and go near to the windmills. However, going inside it is restricted. There are also stalls in the area where you can buy souvenirs such as keychains, mini-replica of the windmill and t-shirts.
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| naahhhh... |
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| Souvenirs they sell in the area |
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