LEE research staff and graduate students participated in an in-house training and workshop on the Python for Power Systems Analysis (PyPSA) toolbox on October 9 and 23, 2024 . The sessions were led by Arizeo Salac (SRS 1, ElectriPHI), who returned from a six-month research sandwich program at the Reiner Lemoine Institute in Berlin, Germany , where he focused on data-driven decision-making and energy systems modeling. The training included a detailed discussion on energy systems modeling, with key topics such as data sources and the representation of energy systems using both conventional and renewable technologies. Participants received hands-on assistance with the software setup and installation, followed by simulation activities that showcased PyPSA’s capabilities in energy and power systems analysis. Mr. Salac also presented his baseline model of the Philippine energy system, which can be utilized for energy transition scenario planning. The event aimed to enhance participants' proficiency with open-source modeling tools, share best practices in modeling, and support their research in energy systems. Article by: Sophia Lunor

Prof. Joey D. Ocon, Dr. Julie Anne D.R. Paraggua, Dr. Lawrence Limjuco, and Giancarlo Sanglay were among the Filipino delegates at the 2nd ASEAN Battery Technology Conference , held from August 21 to 23, 2024 , at the Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa in Singapore. Themed "Powering ASEAN: Innovating the Future of Battery," the event was co-organized by key ASEAN associations from Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. They were accompanied by LEE member and graduate student, Giancarlo Sanglay and NextGen Project Chief Technical Specialist, Dr. Lawrence Limjuco, of the Advanced Batteries Center. The conference aimed to foster connections among researchers, engineers, and industry stakeholders within the battery and electric vehicle (EV) sectors. It provided a platform for knowledge exchange, technical discussions, and potential collaborations. Key topics included the development of the Battery and EV Roadmap for Southeast Asia, as well as government policies and regulations surrounding battery and energy storage systems (ESS) applications. Industry leaders and academic experts also addressed technological advancements in battery materials, financial support for innovations, and strategies for managing the end-of-life value chain of batteries. Prof. Ocon, who also serves as Co-Founder of Nascent Batteries, played an active role in the event by moderating a panel discussion on advancing ESS technologies in Asia. The panel featured representatives from prominent organizations, including EDP Renewables APAC, Green Tenaga Pte Ltd, and the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand. This collaborative event underscored the region's commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and highlighted the critical role of ASEAN countries in driving innovation within the battery and EV industries. Article by: Lora Monique Sapanta

The Laboratory of Electrochemical Engineering (LEE) held a despedida party to bid farewell to two of its active members — Ms. Rosela Lazaro and Asst. Prof. Michael Castro — as they embark on a new chapter of their academic journey. The LEE members, along with their laboratory head, Prof. Joey D. Ocon, celebrated through a friendly competition at the Ever Gotesco Bowling Alley, Commonwealth Avenue last August 19, 2024. This also fostered camaraderie and strengthened the bond and friendship between the lab members. Ms. Lazaro will be studying MS in Environmental Science and Engineering at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, South Korea. Meanwhile, Asst. Prof. Castro will be pursuing a doctorate degree in Nuclear Engineering and Management at the University of Tokyo, Japan. He will be returning to UP Diliman to tend to his duties at the Department of Chemical Engineering. Indeed, ‘goodbyes’ are not the end. It marks a beginning of a new ‘hello’, a step closer to making dreams come true. To Sir Michael, ganbatte! To Sela, hwaiting! We are all rooting for you both! Article by: Lora Monique Sapanta

Prof. Joey Ocon attended and presented their research on transition pathways to renewable energy at the 2024 SDEWES (Sustainable Development of Energy, Water, and Environment Systems) Conference in Rome, Italy last September 8-12, 2024 . The paper, co-authored with Michael Castro and Prof. Laurence Delina, examines strategies for transitioning off-grid islands in the Philippines to renewable energy (RE) systems. Building on their 2022 study, which analyzed hybrid systems across more than 600 islands, the research highlights least-cost hybrid solutions as the most viable short-term pathway. However, it also demonstrates the potential for achieving higher RE shares, including 100%, with strategic planning and policy support. This work gains relevance amid the National Power Corporation’s (NPC) announcement over a year ago to transition off-grid areas away from diesel and achieve 100% RE by 2030. While the goal is ambitious, Prof. Ocon emphasized the need for a detailed roadmap to realize this vision. The research presented aims to provide a framework for cost-effective and sustainable energy transitions. In addition to sharing his research, Prof. Ocon reconnected with former mentee Dr. Graniel Harne Abrenica , who is now at IMEC in Belgium. The full paper is available here. Article by: Mecaelah Palaganas

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After 2.5 years of research and collaboration, the CIPHER Project—Clean and Vertically-Integrated Pure/Applied Hydrogen Energy Research for Next Generation Power Systems —has successfully concluded. To celebrate this milestone, the team held the “DeCIPHERed: Project Closing Workshop” on October 14-15, 2024 , at Hotel Kimberly Tagaytay , bringing together researchers, partners, and distinguished guests to reflect on achievements and explore future opportunities. The workshop highlighted the project’s research journey, with sessions that showcased key research results and accomplishments. Dr. Maricor Divinagracia-Luzadas delivered a comprehensive summary of the project's accomplishments, providing participants information about the project's innovations in fuel cell technology and energy systems. The research fellows, including those currently pursuing graduate studies abroad, presented their significant contributions to the project's success. Prof. Po-Ya Abel Chuang from UC Merced also shared their team's research activities, adding an international perspective to the discussions. The workshop also emphasized capacity building and sustainability. Engr. Honesto Ovid Tubalinal led a session on mentoring and skill development initiatives, while Asst. Prof. Jan Goran Tomacruz facilitated discussions on best practices and lessons learned, offering valuable insights for future R&D endeavors. A panel discussion moderated by Dr. Luzadas and Asst. Prof. Tomacruz delved into career pathways for team members post-project, ensuring the knowledge and skills gained will continue to thrive. Honored guests from CHED-PCARI, including Dr. William G. Padolina , Academician of the National Academy of Science and Technology , and Ms. Kristianne Peralta-Maturana from the Project Management and Coordination Office , provided invaluable guidance. Ms. Peralta-Maturana shared insights on project closure processes and constructive feedback, emphasizing the importance of project planning and execution in research initiatives. Funded by the Commission on Higher Education – Philippine-California Advanced Research Institutes (CHED-PCARI), now known as LAKAS, the CIPHER Project utilized a vertically integrated approach to develop cutting-edge hydrogen energy systems. The collaboration between the University of the Philippines Diliman–Laboratory of Electrochemical Engineering, led by Prof. Joey D. Ocon, and the University of California Merced–Thermal and Electrochemical Energy Laboratory, led by Prof. Po-Ya Abel Chuang , has demonstrated the power of international partnerships in driving scientific innovation. The project ran from April 18, 2022, to October 17, 2024 , making significant contributions to the field of renewable energy. As the CIPHER Project officially concludes, the team extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a role in its success. The legacy of this collaborative undertaking will continue to inspire advancements in hydrogen energy research for years to come. Article by: Raymart Bonete

The Laboratory of Electrochemical Engineering (LEE) is beyond proud to announce that our co-founder, Prof. Joey Ocon, has been reappointed as UP Scientist III , a testament to his continued dedication and active contribution to scientific research and innovation, and Assoc. Prof. Julie Anne Del Rosario-Paraggua has been newly appointed as UP Scientist I , a significant achievement reflecting her commitment to excellence and impactful research. The UP SPS honors exceptional researchers for their outstanding productivity and contributions to advancing knowledge, science, and technology—efforts that address critical national and global challenges. Prof. Ocon and Prof. Paraggua exemplifies collaboration, leadership, and innovation, setting a benchmark for future generations of scientists. To Prof. Ocon, Prof. Paraggua, and all UP Scientists: thank you for inspiring the next wave of Filipino scientists. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. Article by: Raymart Bonete

Project CIPHER, led by research fellows Jaira Neibel Bamba, Alicia Theresse Dumlao, Rosela Mae Lazaro, Dr. DJ Donn Matienzo, and project staff Prof. Joey Ocon, recently published a review article titled “Green Hydrogen from Seawater Electrolysis: Recent Developments and Future Perspectives” in Elsevier’s Current Opinion in Electrochemistry journal (IF 7.9). This review explores the fundamental principles of seawater electrolysis (SWE), addressing key challenges while highlighting recent advancements in electrocatalyst design, electrolyte optimization, and membrane innovations. The work emphasizes how SWE can play a crucial role in producing green hydrogen when powered by renewable energy, offering a sustainable solution for large-scale hydrogen production. For more information on the paper, please visit the link below: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coelec.2024.101592 ----- The authors extend their special thanks to Dr. Maricor Divinagracia-Luzadas for her contributions and insightful feedback during the manuscript preparation. The authors would also like to acknowledge the support from the CIPHER Project (IIID 2018–008) funded by The Commission on Higher Education − Philippine California Advanced Research Institutes (currently CHED−LAKAS Program).