Techno-Economic Assessment of Integrating Solar and Wind Energy to Existing Hydropower Plant in Catanduanes Island Using HOMER and GIS

This study evaluates a hybrid renewable energy system integrating solar, wind, and existing hydropower resources in Catanduanes Island, Philippines. The goal is to reduce diesel dependency by identifying cost-effective renewable alternatives. Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to locate optimal sites for solar and wind installations, based on resource and geographic constraints. HOMER Pro software simulated three configurations: Solar-Hydro, Wind-Hydro, and Solar-Wind-Hydro. Each was analyzed based on Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), Net Present Cost (NPC), and operating cost. Results showed the Solar-Wind-Hydro system to be the most cost-effective, with an LCOE of PS.S9/kWh and an NPC of P16.9 billion. While the system offers technical and economic advantages, full implementation would require external funding due to limited local resources.. This study provides a replicable model for transitioning other off-grid islands in the Philippines to a cleaner and more reliable energy system.