Harnessing the Power of Water: An In-depth Analysis on the Feasibility of

Hydropower Energy Source Towards a Clean and Sustainable Future in the

Philippines
Roldeo Rien B. Asuncion1, Michelle T. Manuel2, Maxine Jane S. Rodrin3
1
De La Salle University - Manila
2
De La Salle University - Manila
3
De La Salle University - Manila
Gokongwei College of Engineering
1
roldeo_asuncion@dlsu.edu.ph, 2michelle_manuel@dlsu.edu.ph, 3maxine_rodrin@dlsu.edu.ph

1. OVERVIEW Philippines, there are various types of the said

The research paper delves into the possibility
and importance of utilizing hydropower energy as a
clean and sustainable resource in the Philippines. With a
varied energy landscape that includes coal, natural gas,
geothermal, wind, and solar energy, there is an
increasing need for renewable alternatives. Currently,
coal holds a dominant position in the energy mix;
however, due to its environmental consequences and
diminishing reserves, a shift toward more sustainable
choices is imperative.
Given these circumstances, the research
centers on assessing hydropower's potential to fulfill the
country's energy requirements while lessening its
carbon impact. The research comprehensively examines
different aspects of incorporating hydropower,
encompassing theoretical, technical, economic, and
environmental factors.
2. BACKGROUND
The Philippines is one of the countries in
Southeast Asia, if not the whole world, that has a diverse
combination of energy sources ranging from
non-renewable energy sources such as coal and natural
gas, and renewable energy sources such as geothermal,
hydropower, , wind power, and solar. To date, the main
source of energy in the country is coal—having a
consumption rate of 47% which is almost half of the
predominantly used energy source. As time goes by,
non-renewable energy sources keep depleting and to
add, the population in the country is exponentially rising
which means that the usage for these sources are
doubled, if not tripled. Additionally, the aforementioned
energy sources are not environmentally-friendly, or are
hazardous to humans. That is why renewable energy
sources are introduced in the country in order to replace
the infamous non-renewable energy sources. In the
renewable energy sources namely: Hydropower energy,
Geothermal Energy, Wind energy, and Solar Energy. Out
of all these renewable energy sources, one is mostly
used and is the most feasible amongst other
sources—hydropower.
3. DISCUSSION
This section provides a comprehensive
explanation regarding the topic Hydroelectric Power
Plants and its feasibility as a renewable energy source. It
also tackles various considerations such as its
Theoretical Considerations, Technical Considerations,
Economic Considerations, and Impact Considerations.
3.1 INTRODUCTION
The emergence of harnessing energy from
renewable sources paved the way not only for humans
but also the planet to have a clean and sustainable
future as it replaces the use of fossil fuels or any sort of
non-renewable energy source since the latter offers
hazardous effects on the environment.
Hydropower, according to the Department of
Energy, is often known as hydroelectric power and is a
sustainable kind of energy that creates electricity by
altering the inherent flow of a river or other body of
water using a dam or diversion construction. In the
Philippines, around 16% of the national energy
percentage comprises hydroelectric power with 15 large
plants—having Magat Dam situated in the northern
portion of the country as the largest contributor of
hydroelectric power. The Philippines has a total
installed hydroelectric capacity of around 3,701 MW,
with more than 70 units now in service, wherein 16% of
the total for the country is represented by it. About 566
MW of this is run-of-river, while 3,135 MW is generated
by dam-type facilities, including one with a 728 MW
pumped storage complex (Barbosa & Königshofer, n.d.).
Hydropower accounted for around 4.5% of the
Philippines' energy consumption in 2021, compared to
solar energy's 0.7% and wind energy's 0.6%, as stated by
Ritchie et. al (2022). Therefore, the significance of
hydroelectric power can be seen in the number of
percentages shows how important hydropower is to the
Philippines' overall energy mix to lessen its dependency
on fossil fuels by diversifying its energy sources.
3.2 CONSIDERATIONS
This subpart provides an extensive description
about the different considerations present in this paper.
The theoretical consideration part explains the
conceptual background revolving the topic whilst the
technical consideration part discusses the components
as well as the functions of each component.
Additionally, it also discusses the economic
considerations which explains the costs as well as
investments and such. Lastly, it discusses the impact
considerations which explains how beneficial, or
detrimental, the topic of the paper is to the environment.
3.2.1 Theoretical Considerations
The Philippines has a good opportunity to
examine the potential of hydropower as a sustainable
and environmentally acceptable energy source because
of its abundant water reserves. The theoretical
consideration focuses on the potential for hydropower
to significantly increase and examine the country's
energy variety, while also considering the possibilities
and problems that would arise when it is implemented.
The Mini-Hydroelectric Power Incentives Act
of 1991 (Republic Act No. 7156) seeks to give incentives
and advantages to tiny hydroelectric power developers
in order to create a setting that would allow for the
greatest development of the hydroelectric power
resources in the Philippines (“Mini-hydroelectric Power
Incentive Act”, n.d.). According to Okedu et. al (2021),
the major component of hydropower projects is the
water turbine. Hence, increasing its effectiveness is of
utmost importance. Theoretically, the power extracted
to the mass flow rate, gravity, and head of the water
turbine is what determines the efficiency of the device
(Acharya et al., 2015). Furthermore, the volume or
amount of water in the dam, flood spill water loss,
bypass, or leakage, the head, hydraulic losses due to
water friction with respect to fluctuations in velocity,
and the system's electromechanical energy conversion
efficiency are used to calculate the potential energy
capability or production in a hydropower system
(Adhikari, 2016).
As noted by (Department of Energy
Philippines, n.d.), more than 90% of the potential new
capacity is expected to be provided by 18 large
hydropower potentials, and the remaining 10% coming
from mini-hydro potentials. Therefore, more than 10% of
the nation's electricity needs will be met by hydropower
generation due to the nation's abundant hydropower
potential.
The Philippines' hydrological environment and
geographical areas may be thoroughly analyzed to find
potential places for hydropower projects. To achieve a
balance between energy production and ecological
preservation, factors including river flows, water storage
capability, and environmental repercussions should be
taken into consideration. A detailed analysis of the
environmental effect is also necessary to make sure that
hydropower does not worsen already-existing ecological
problems. An essential component of making ethical
decisions is assessing possible consequences on aquatic
ecosystems, water quality, and biodiversity. Due to the
possibility of upstream floods, damage of agricultural
land and animal habitat, and disturbance of residents in
the impacted areas, there is significant opposition to the
ongoing construction of large hydropower projects
(Department of Energy Philippines, n.d.). Thus, the
mentioned socio-environmental concerns make it
difficult to move forward with the large hydropower
projects in the country.
3.2.2 Technical Considerations
Hydroelectric Power Sources are widely used
nowadays as a source of renewable energy as it provides
a range of environmental and economic benefits.
Hydroelectric Power Sources are constructed
in order to provide the following: Hydroelectric Power
Plants serve as water storages and are known to be
major sources of water used in the daily lives of humans
such as cleaning, washing, gardening, agricultural uses,
industrial uses, etc.; Hydroelectric Power Plants are
used for irrigation wherein the water stored in the
aforementioned hydroelectric power source aer diverted
through canals directed to fields where water levels are
low for irrigation purposes; The water in hydroelectric
power plants are used in order to harness hydroelectric
power wherein it passes through turbines in order to
generate hydroelectric power; Hydroelectric Power
Plants also serve as flood prevention utility as it stores
water from rain which prevents unexpected floods
leading to total loss and damage to properties.
Hydroelectric Power Plants, similar to any
power source, also have components that run together
in order to work. The first component for the
aforementioned power plant are Dams, as shown in
Figure 3.1, which are utilized to create a reservoir that
stores water which will be used in power plants. Figure 3.3 Dam Penstock

The next component of the Power Plants are

Turbines, shown in Figure 3.4, which are labeled as “the
heart of the hydroelectric power plant”. These turbines
are devices that are placed inside of the penstock and
are turned by the force exerted by the flow of
water—converting kinetic energy of the water into
mechanical energy.

Figure 3.1 Dam Diagram

The next component is the Intake Structure,

located at either the base of the dam or any suitable
location in the reservoir, which allows the flow of water
from the reservoir into the hydroelectric power plant’s
water conveyance system as shown in Figure 3.2.

Figure 3.4 Turbine

Generators, as shown in Figure 3.5, are also

one of the components in Hydroelectric Power Plants
wherein it is connected to the turbines and converts the
Figure 3.2 Intake Structure mechanical energy from the turbines into electrical
energy.
The next is the penstock, shown in figure 3.3,
which is a large, pressurized pipeline that is used in
order for water to flow from the intake structure to the
turbines.

Figure 3.5 Generator along with other
components
The next component are Transformers, shown
in figure 3.6, which are used in order to step up the
voltage to a higher level since the voltage converted by
the generators are relatively low.
Figure 3.6 Transformer along with other
components
The next component are transmission lines,
which are connected to the transformer wherein the
high-level voltage coming from the transformer is
transmitted through overhead power lines to substations
and which are then distributed to the consumers of the
electrical grid.
Figure 3.7 Transmission lines along with other
components
Another component of hydroelectric power
plants is the Tailrace which is also connected to the
turbines wherein it is utilized as the “exit” of the water
that passes through the turbines and is discharged
downstream and returns the water to the reservoir.
Figure 3.8 Tailrace/Tailwater
Lastly, control systems are also part of the
components of the power plant wherein it manages and
regulates the flow of water that is passed through the
turbines and other components—ensuring a smooth,
safe, and efficient operation of the hydroelectric power
plant.
Figure 3.9 Dam System Controls
3.2.3 ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS
The incorporation of hydropower as an energy
source for a clean and sustainable future in the
Philippines requires a thorough evaluation of economic
factors. The Economic consideration will be covering
both initial investments and long-term returns of having
hydropower as an energy source. Examining these
economic factors is essential in comprehending the
complete capabilities of hydropower and its potential to
guide the nation towards a more environmentally
conscious direction.
Generating 76% of the planet's renewable
electricity, hydropower offers a clean, localized, and
substantial energy option that has the potential to
enhance the well-being of populations in developing
nations without imposing a heavy financial burden (Do
The Benefits of Sustainable Hydropower Outweigh the
Costs?, n.d.). Constructing a hydropower plant, much
like other energy initiatives, demands a substantial
investment. However, on the other hand it also provides
employment for a significant workforce. Furthermore, a
hydropower plant has the capacity to boost economic
vitality and raise tax income within the neighboring
areas(De Faria et al., 2017).
While constructing a dam is associated with
high expenses and potential adverse impacts on the
environment, hydroelectric power production offers
several long term benefits in comparison to the energy
produced from fossil fuels.
In terms of returns, the potential of having a
hydropower as an energy source is definitely substantial
in the long run. One of the main economic benefits of
hydropower lies in its long-term cost-efficiency. While
the initial construction expenses are high, the ensuing
long-term gains can considerably cut costs.
Furthermore, the expenses of construction can also be
reduced by utilizing existing structures like bridges,
tunnels, and dams (Benefits of Hydropower, n.d.). After
becoming operational, a hydropower facility requires
relatively minor maintenance and operating expenses
and can continue operating for numerous decades, in
contrast to traditional fossil fuel-driven power plants
(Do The Benefits of Sustainable Hydropower Outweigh
the Costs?, n.d.). These ongoing costs will mainly
involve regular upkeep and staff wages, which are
notably lower compared to other sources of energy.
Another main economic benefit of hydropower lies
within its ability to utilize other renewable sources.
Hydropower plants with storage reservoirs can quickly
adjust to changes in electricity demand, making them
more efficient in supporting intermittent renewable
sources like solar and wind energy (Hydroelectric
Power: Advantages of Production and Usage | U.S.
Geological Survey, 2018).
While the world shifts towards renewable
energy, adopting hydropower not only ensures economic
benefits but also highlights the Philippines' dedication to
a more environmentally friendly and sustainable planet.
3.2.4 IMPACT CONSIDERATIONS
Hydroelectric Power Plants are not only
beneficial to humans—reducing the amount of costs in
electric consumption—but also to the environment. The
aforementioned power plant is one of the known
renewable energy sources wherein it is based on the
natural water cycle—mitigating the use as well as the
dependence on non-renewable sources such as fossil
fuels—coals, oil, and natural gas. It also reduces the
emission of greenhouse gases since these hydroelectric
power plants produce very low-to-none levels of
greenhouse gas compared to fossil fuel-based
plants—reducing the risk of climate change.
Hydroelectric Power Plants also reduce air pollution as
there is no fuel burning present—one of the major
causes of the release of Carbon Dioxide as well as Sulfur
Dioxide, Nitrogen Oxide, and other pollutants in the air.
These plants also help in flood control since it collects
water from rainfalls, creating reservoirs that temporarily
hold the water. It also helps in Drought Management as
the water in the reservoirs in these plants is released
during dry seasons.
Although Hydroelectric Power Plants have
numerous benefits to consumers as well as the
environment, it also has its disadvantages. One of them
is the destruction of natural habitats due to the
construction of dams—creating negative effects on
biodiversity as well as the loss of certain species.
Another is Social Displacement wherein inhabitants in
one area need to find a habitat somewhere
else—creating livelihood predicaments and social
disruptions.
4. CONCLUSIONS
In conclusion, this research paper has explored
the potential and significance of incorporating
hydropower energy as a clean and sustainable resource
in the Philippines. Amidst a diverse energy mix,
including coal, natural gas, and renewables, the need for
sustainable alternatives is evident. The paper delved into
various aspects of hydropower integration, considering
theoretical, technical, economic, and environmental
factors.
With coal still dominating Philippines energy
consumption, various environmental concerns rise and
the need for renewable sources like hydropower
becomes crucial. The exploration into the theoretical
considerations of having a hydropower as an energy
source highlights its capacity to enhance energy
diversity within the country's energy landscape, while
also acknowledging the diverse array of opportunities
and challenges it presents. The exploration into [5] Department of Energy Philippines. (n.d.).
technical considerations of hydropower as an energy Hydropower. Department of Energy
source was able to highlight the intricate components of Philippines.
hydropower plants, showcasing their multifunctional https://www.doe.gov.ph/hydropower
role beyond energy generation. The exploration into the
economic consideration of a hydropower revealed that [6] Barbosa, M., & Königshofer, A. (n.d.).
although hydropower demands substantial initial Philippines - good prospects for Green Energy.
investments, hydropower also offers potential long-term ANDRITZ GROUP.
cost-efficiency and job opportunities as a return. The https://www.andritz.com/hydro-en/hydronews/
exploration into impact considerations of a hydropower hydro-news-asia/philippines#:~:text=With%20m
highlighted the positive outcomes that a hydroelectric ore%20than%2070%20plants,728%20MW%20pum
power plant can deliver, benefiting not just humans but ped%20storage%20complex.
also the natural environment. However, despite its
advantages, hydropower also poses environmental [7] Ritchie, H., & Roser, M. (2022, October 27).
challenges such as habitat disruption and community Philippines: Energy Country Profile. Our World
displacement. in Data.
In essence, not only does embracing https://ourworldindata.org/energy/country/phili
hydropower align with the global move towards ppines
renewable energy, but it also showcases the Philippines’
dedication to both economic progress and [8] How Hydropower Works. (n.d.). Energy.gov.
environmental care. As the world shifts to more https://www.energy.gov/eere/water/how-hydrop
sustainable energy, hydropower becomes a key factor ower-works
for positive change, contributing to a cleaner and
brighter future for the Philippines. [9] Do the benefits of sustainable hydropower
outweigh the costs? (n.d.).
5. REFERENCES https://www.hydropower.org/blog/do-the-benefi
ts-of-sustainable-hydropower-outweigh-the-cos
[1] Mini-hydroelectric Power Incentive Act (RA ts
7156). Climate Change Laws of the World.
(n.d.). [10] F. De Faria, A. Davis, E. Severnini, and P.
https://climate-laws.org/document/mini-hydroel Jaramillo (2017). The local socio-economic
ectric-power-incentive-act-ra-7156_4ac8 impacts of large hydropower plant
development in a developing country
[2] Okedu, K. E., & Al Siyabi, M. S. (2021). (thesis), Elsevier
Harnessing Hydropower Potential in Desert
Regions: The case of Wadi Dayqah Dam, [11] Benefits of Hydropower. (n.d.). Energy.gov.
Quriyat, Oman. Frontiers in Water, 3. https://www.energy.gov/eere/water/benefits-hyd
https://doi.org/10.3389/frwa.2021.686856 ropower

[3] Acharya, N., Kim, C.-G., Thapa, B., & Lee, Y.-H. [12] Hydroelectric Power: Advantages of
(2015). Numerical Analysis and performance Production and Usage | U.S. Geological Survey.
enhancement of a cross-flow Hydro Turbine. (2018, August 30).
Renewable Energy, 80, 819–826. https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-scie
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2015.01.064 nce-school/science/hydroelectric-power-advant
ages-production-and-usage#overview
[4] Ram, A. (2016). Design Improvement of
Crossflow Hydro Turbine (thesis). University of
Calgary, Calgary.