Prof. Ocon Presented at 2024 SDEWES Conference in Rome

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. Prof Ocon is also accompanied by Prof. Carl Odulio, Vice Chancellor for Research and Development of UP Diliman.

The full paper is available here.

Article by: Mecaelah Palaganas