Performance evaluation of small-scale solar photovoltaic water supply systems in an island environment (Olango Island, Cebu, Philippines) | |
| Author | Ruiz, Jose Eric Ceniza |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no. WA-92-28 |
| Subject(s) | Water-supply engineering--Philippines--Olango Island Photovoltaic power generation--Philippines--Olango Island |
| Note | A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering, School of Engineering and Technology |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | The potential of solar photovoltaic technology (SPV) for water supply application in the Philippines is vast. Particularly in small islands where there is no grid electricity and where energy is required to transport fresh water from the source to users, SPV seemingly stands out as a better alternative among other options. The Poo/Basdaku SPV water supply system in Olango Island typifies this description. However, during its almost seven years of operation, the system apparently suffers from a myriad of problems; from leaking pipe and tank to pump breakdowns; from unaccounted water to poor community participation. The viability of the project seems unclear; especially that not a single evaluation of the project was ever conducted. An evaluative study has been done to assess the performance of the project. Three methods are used in the course of the investigation, namely: financial analysis, technical appraisal and review of the projecfs institutional concerns. Supplementary projectrelated studies undertaken are envisaged to contribute to the improvement of the system's performance. Results of the study have shown the feasibility and viability of the SPV system for the island setting. It has proven itself financially as a better alternative than a diesel pumping system. Compared to other possible forms of water supply in the island, SPV system is found to be the best in terms of cost-competitiveness and reliability. Fieldtesting of the SPV set-up came up with efficiency values that closely correspond to the UNDP/Grundfos standards for similar systems; hence, the system is just as adequate and reliable. Deficiencies of the system were also uncovered such as system overdesigning, inefficient water fee collection and poor maintenance work to name a few. Social preparation is probably one aspect in which the project has failed. The SPV system was installed without much consultation with the people. Training programs and availability of technical support need to be instituted to equip the locals with the expertise of handling their own system. Studies on seawater intrusion, rainwater harvesting and combined use of other alternative sources of water also provide some insights on ways of improving the system. |
| Year | 1992 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | School of Engineering and Technology (SET) |
| Department | Other Field of Studies (No Department) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Water Resources Research Engineering (WA) |
| Chairperson(s) | Hjorth, Peder |
| Examination Committee(s) | Gupta, Ashim Das ;Harboe, Ricardo ;Onta, Pushpa Raj |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | The Government of Australia |
| Degree | Thesis (M.Eng.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1992 |