Harnessing Renewable Energy for Efficient

Cost Reduction in Fish Farming

Alexis Balandra

Francis James Barimbao

Gerry Jr. Cervantes

Edmarc Damaigo

Jan Christian De Leon

Ian Keith Inres

Norberto III Garrote

John Vincent Lungay

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING PROGRAM

UNIVERSITY OF BOHOL

CITY OF TAGBILARAN

January 2024
 Harnessing Renewable Energy for Efficient

Cost Reduction in Fish Farming

A Research Project presented to the Dean and Faculty of

College of Engineering and Technology

University of Bohol, Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines

Submitted by:

Alexis Balandra

Francis James Barimbao

Gerry Jr. H. Cervantes

John Edmarc C. Damiago

Jan Christian P. De Leon

Ian Keith A. Inres

Norberto III Garrote

John Vincent A. Lungay

Engr. Cesar MigriÑo

Adviser

Engr. Juswe G. Saligan

Instructor

January 2024
 ABSTRACT

In response to the growing demand for sustainable and cost-effective

practices in fish farming, this thesis investigates the untapped potential of

integrating renewable energy sources to optimize operational efficiency. This

research explores harnessing renewable energy, aiming to provide a

comprehensive understanding of their applicability and impact on reducing

production costs. By bridging the gap between renewable energy solutions and

fish farming, this study aims to offer actionable insights for fish farmers seeking

both economic viability and environmental stewardship in fish farming operations.

Keywords: renewable energy, solar power, fish farming, Cost reduction,

Aquaculture
 CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

INTRODUCTION

Demand for seafood rises as the world's population increases and eating

habits change to become more protein-rich. Aquaculture has developed into a

vital industry to meet this expanding need. However, given how quickly the

aquaculture sector has grown, concerns have been raised about potential

environmental effects, mainly energy consumption and greenhouse gas

emissions. The aquaculture industry can only survive in the long run by

transitioning to sustainable practices. One of the main issues facing the

aquaculture industry is the high energy requirements for maintaining ideal

conditions in fish farming systems. This research attempts to address this issue.

In addition to being extremely expensive for fish farmers, traditional energy

sources—mostly reliant on fossil fuels—also greatly increase carbon emissions.

Since the world struggles with the effects of climate change, the aquaculture

industry has never had greater demand for alternative, environmentally friendly

energy solutions.

The goal of this study is to add renewable energy sources to aquaculture

operations in order to raise their sustainability profile. Utilizing solar technologies

is one practical approach to drastically lower the carbon footprint associated with

fish farming. Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is

expected to result in significant financial savings for aquaculture enterprises and

reduce their environmental impact. This study additionally attempts to investigate

the feasibility of implementing renewable energy systems in diverse aquaculture

environments in terms of technology, cost, and the environment. While

incorporating renewable energy has obvious potential benefits, more

investigation is required to ascertain how practical and flexible these solutions

are in various infrastructure, climatic, and geographic contexts. Understanding

the intricacies and challenges associated with transitioning to renewable energy

sources is imperative to guarantee the widespread adoption of sustainable

practices in the aquaculture industry.

This project seeks to provide relevant information for fish farmers,

decision-makers, and industry stakeholders by analyzing case studies,

performing techno-economic analyses, and applying advanced modeling

techniques. By carefully examining the benefits and drawbacks of employing

renewable energy sources, this study seeks to advance the discussion on

sustainable aquaculture techniques.

As young electrical engineering students, we are motivated by a desire to

innovate to investigate new uses of renewable energy to solve modern problems.

We find a special point where sustainability and technology converge in

aquaculture, which is quickly rising to fulfill the demands of a growing world

population. In order to minimize energy usage, improve operational efficiency,

and eventually lower fish farming costs, this research explores the potential of

renewable energy.
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND

Basic Photovoltaic Theory

The Basic Photovoltaic theory by Yahia Baghzouz (2015) states that

electric generation using photovoltaics has been useful in converting the sun into

electricity. Silicon material and sun parcels are reviewed with emphasis on the

quantum of energy demanded to free valence electrons and the energy content

of the sun throughout the solar diapason. The need to add contaminations to

form n-type and p-type accouterments to separate the free electrons from the

holes left before is quickly addressed. Photovoltaic systems reply to light by

transubstantiating some part of it into electricity. Baghzouz (2015) added that

photovoltaic systems respond to light by transforming some of it into electricity.

The photovoltaic effect occurs in some semi-conductive accouterments, like

silicon. At the introductory position, the semiconductor absorbs photons,

instigative an electron that can be uprooted into electrical energy by an erected-

in the applied electric field. When exposed to the sun, the original circuit model of

the cell is deduced from that of a p – n junction diode. The impact current–

voltage multitudinous variables in the circuit model on the cell current–voltage ( I

– V) wind and power conversion effectiveness are reviewed, along with the

structure blocks that make up a solar PV module.

Smart Grid Theory

A novel smart grid theory for optimal sizing of hybrid renewable energy

systems by Ali M. Eltamaly et al. (2016). A smart grid enables interaction

between the generation and load to deliver energy based on the optimal

operating conditions. Although the smart grid solves many contemporary

problems, it also gives rise to new control and optimization problems, especially

with the growing role of renewable energy sources. The load shifting technique

has been applied in this paper by dividing the load into two categories: high-

priority load (HPL) and low-priority load (LPL). HPL must be supplied, regardless

of the generation conditions, but LPL can be supplied when the generation from

renewable sources is available. This paper introduces a new proposed design

and optimization program for techno-economic sizing of standalone hybrid

PV/wind/diesel/battery energy systems under smart grid theory for the lowest

cost of generated energy at the highest reliability. An accurate methodology for

pairing between five Saudi Arabia sites and ten wind turbines (WTs) from

different manufacturers has been introduced to maximize energy production and

minimize the price of kWh generated. The new proposed program is

implemented in a flexible fashion, which is not available in many market-available

programs. Many valuable results can be extracted from the proposed program

that could help researchers and decision-makers.

The Role of Renewable Energy Prosumers in Implementing Energy Justice

Theory

The Role of Renewable Energy Prosumers in Implementing Energy

Justice Theory by Saulė Milčiuvienė et al. (2019). In recent years, photovoltaic-

based distributed electricity generation has played a vital role in achieving

climate and energy policy goals. The energy market is changing rapidly from

centralized generation towards unbundling generation, transmission, distribution,

and supply activities. As energy consumers also become producers, a new

energy market player—the prosumer—is emerging. The role of the prosumer as

a market player can be analyzed in terms of implemented technological

solutions, economic assessment, environmental impact, and legal regulation

requirements. This article aims to investigate the importance and compatibility of

energy prosumers with energy justice theory in the context of European Union

(EU) law. The authors concluded that an energy prosumer would help meet

energy justice goals only if the government ensures support for generation

facilities for low-income consumers, as only then can intrageneration equity be

achieved. Second, to ensure equality among places with different energy

sources, the government should promote the development of generation facilities

using different renewable energy sources. Third, the short-term electricity market

should be developed, which may allow energy consumers to participate.

LEGAL BASIS

Republic Act No. 8435

Republic Act No. 8435, also known as the Agriculture and Fisheries

Modernization Act (AFMA) of 1997, stands as a cornerstone of Philippine

agricultural policy. Enacted on December 22, 1997, during President Fidel V.

Ramos' administration, it endeavors to usher in a new era of modernization and

development for the agriculture and fisheries sectors. This legislation

emphasizes adopting advanced technologies, robust research and development

efforts, and establishing credit and financing systems to support farmers,

fisherfolk, and agricultural entrepreneurs. AFMA also significantly emphasizes

the promotion of agribusiness ventures, market competitiveness, and

environmental sustainability. Through participatory planning and implementation,

the act empowers stakeholders, including local communities and government

units, to actively contribute to the growth of these vital sectors. Overall, Republic

Act No. 8435 is a comprehensive effort to elevate the agriculture and fisheries

industries, aiming to enhance livelihoods, fortify food security, and ensure

sustainable development in the Philippines.

Republic Act No. 9513

Republic Act No. 9513, also known as the "Renewable Energy Act of

2008," is a pivotal legislation in the Philippines. Enacted on December 16, 2008,

during Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's presidency, it is designed to propel the

country's development, utilization, and commercialization of renewable energy

resources. The law encourages harnessing diverse sources like solar, wind,

hydro, geothermal, and biomass. It establishes feed-in tariffs to guarantee fair

compensation for renewable energy producers. It mandates integrating

renewable energy into the nation's energy mix through Renewable Portfolio

Standards. Additionally, RA 9513 provides a suite of fiscal and non-fiscal

incentives to incentivize investments in renewable energy projects. With

provisions for grid code modification, net metering, and the creation of the

National Renewable Energy Board (NREB) overseeing its implementation, this

law signals a significant shift towards sustainable and environmentally

responsible energy practices in the Philippines.

Republic Act No. 11285

Republic Act No. 11285, also known as the "Energy Efficiency and

Conservation Act," was enacted on April 12, 2019, to ingrain energy efficiency

and conservation as a fundamental aspect of national life. Central to this law is

establishing the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Plan (NEECP),

overseen by the Department of Energy (DOE), which outlines strategies and

programs across various sectors. The DOE is further mandated to set energy

efficiency and conservation standards for appliances, buildings, industrial

equipment, vehicles, and other energy-consuming products. This legislation also

promotes the adoption of Energy Management Systems (EnMS) and implements

an energy labeling program to inform consumers about the energy efficiency of

products. An Energy Efficiency and Conservation Fund has been established to

support these endeavors.

Moreover, RA 11285 allocates resources for research and development in

this field. Fiscal and non-fiscal incentives are provided to incentivize compliance,

while penalties are in place for non-compliance with the standards. Coordination

with relevant agencies and submitting annual reports on the progress of energy

efficiency and conservation initiatives are also integral components of this law.

Overall, RA 11285 is a pivotal instrument in advancing sustainable and efficient

energy use in the Philippines. Please note that this information is based on the

law as of September 2021, and subsequent amendments or developments may

have occurred. Consulting official sources or legal experts is advisable for the

most current information.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The sun provides most of the energy used by humans on Earth. So-called

"solar" energy is harnessed directly from the sun. Renewable energy is

sometimes known as eco-friendly power, green power, sustainable power, or

alternative energy. Very little of the sun's energy reaches Earth as radiation

because the surrounding stellar environment absorbs most of it. In only one hour,

the sun's rays reach Earth's surface with more energy than can be generated by

any combination of conventional energy sources like fossil fuels, hydropower,

nuclear power, etc. Compared to a nuclear power plant, which can create 1000

MW of electricity by converting 0.130 kg of nuclear fuel in one year, the sun's

surface transforms around 4,000,000 t of solar fuel into energy each second. The

average amount of solar energy received by a square meter of Earth's surface is

1366 W (Lindsey, 2009); however, this may vary depending on latitude (Cocks,

2009). A critical first step in harnessing solar energy is determining how much

energy is available from the sun in a given area of the Earth. A country's

economic and social progress depends on how well it can get a reliable and

cheap supply of energy (Fatai et al., 2004; Muneer et al., 2006). Most of the

current global energy demand is being met by consuming conventional fossil

fuels. Solar and wind energy fulfill only 9% of the world's energy requirements.

The global energy mix for 2019 revealed that solar energy increased along with

other renewable sources by up to 24%, which is almost twice as much as wind

energy for that specific year (Kapoor et al., 2019).

Adopting and maintaining the balance between energy demand and

economics is significant in sustainable agriculture goals. Many under-developing

countries are coping with increasing demands for clean water, food, and

alternative energy sources amidst climate change. Due to the high population

growth, economic and technological development, urbanization, and climate

change, energy demand is also increasing rapidly. By 2035, the world's energy

demand is predicted to increase by 50% (International Energy Agency, 2010).

This increase in energy demand will increase electricity prices, directly impacting

the agriculture sector due to its high energy demand for various agricultural
activities. This high input cost to produce food from agriculture will increase food

prices, cascading to poverty and hunger and threatening food security,

particularly in under-developing countries (Waseem et al., 2022). The

intensification of energy usage in agriculture and high input costs could be

addressed by adopting renewable sources and better energy management

practices.

Operations involving the cultivation of aquatic creatures, known as

aquaculture, frequently need much energy for water circulation, aeration, heating,

and lighting. Studies by Smith et al. (2018) and Chen et al. (2020) draw attention

to the significant effect that energy consumption has on the costs associated with

operating a fish farm. This underscores how urgently the aquaculture business

needs sustainable and affordable energy alternatives. High operational costs,

environmental effects, resource efficiency, technical advancements, integration

of renewable energy sources, energy audits, regulatory assistance, and

practitioner education are some of the essential factors to consider. The

industry's long-term viability depends on addressing energy use, consistent with

global initiatives to encourage ethical food production.

Aquaculture operations have a great chance to revolutionize their energy

landscape by utilizing renewable energy sources. These environmentally friendly

energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydrokinetic, and bioenergy, have drawn a

lot of interest since they have the potential to drastically reduce the industry's

environmental impact while also boosting its economic viability. Yang and Cao's

research (2019), which demonstrates the successful integration of solar

photovoltaic systems in fish farming, is one of the significant advancements in

this field. In addition to showing how aquaculture operations can be modified to

harness solar energy, this novel approach also highlights a palpably decreased

dependency on traditional energy sources. Aquaculture can profit from solar

energy use in two ways: it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and lessens the

industry's sensitivity to changes in energy prices.

As the demand for fish and seafood products continues to rise, the need

for sustainable aquaculture practices has become paramount. Traditional

aquaculture practices often require significant energy inputs for various activities

such as water circulation, aeration, and optimal water quality. These energy

needs are typically met through fossil fuel-based energy sources such as diesel

generators or electricity from the grid, which can contribute to environmental

degradation in several ways. However, integrating solar energy into fish farming

operations presents a viable and eco-friendly solution. In this article, they will

explore the potential of solar-powered water pumps in enabling sustainable

aquaculture practices. Victor Kakendo (2023). Overall, there are several

advantages to using solar energy for sustainable aquaculture. It encourages the

use of green, renewable energy sources, lessens reliance on finite resources,

and reduces climate change. By adopting solar energy, we can steer aquaculture

toward a more sustainable and prosperous future.

 According to the IEA, world electricity demand will have increased by 70%

by 2040 - its share of final energy use rising from 18 to 24% during the same

period – driven mainly by the emerging economies of India, China, Africa, the

Middle East, and South-East Asia.

The transition to an energy system based on renewable technologies will

have positive economic consequences on the global economy and development.

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the IEA

(International Energy Agency), tripling the renewable energy share in electricity

generation by 2022 until it reaches 90 % worldwide by 2030 will be necessary to

meet the Paris Agreement targets. This requires raising annual investments in

renewable energy from the current USD 1.3 trillion to USD 5 trillion, thereby

boosting job creation and growth linked to the green economy.

A secure, sufficient, and accessible energy supply is crucial for the

sustainability of modern societies. The demand for the provision of energy is

increasing rapidly worldwide, and the trend is likely to continue in the future. In

2005, the worldwide electricity generation was 17450 TWh, out of which 40%

originated from coal, 20% from gas, 16% from nuclear, 16% from hydro, 7% from

oil, and only 2% from renewable sources, i.e. small hydro, wind, geothermal, etc.

Electricity-producing systems presently in use worldwide can be classified into

three main categories: fossil fuels, nuclear power, and renewables. Fossil fuels in

their crude form, i.e., wood, coal, and oil, have traditionally been an extensively

used energy resource. Nuclear power, for several reasons, is not accessible to

the vast majority of the world and has found its application only within developed
countries. Renewable energy resources are easily accessible to mankind around

the world. Renewable energy is not only available in a wide range but is also

abundant in nature. The renewable energy sector is currently meeting 13.5% of

the global energy demand. The renewable energy sector is now growing faster

than the growth in the overall energy market. Some long-term scenarios

postulate a rapidly increasing share of renewable technologies (comprised of

solar, wind, geothermal, and modern biomass, as well as the more traditional

source, i.e., hydro). Under these scenarios, renewables could meet up to 50% of

the total energy demand by the mid-21st century with appropriate policies and

new technology developments.

Solar photovoltaic technology could harness the sun's energy to provide

large-scale, domestically secure, and environmentally friendly electricity. In 2005,

global solar markets reached US$ 11.8 billion, up 55% from 2004. Solar

installations are expected to provide 15 GW in 2010 versus 2.7 GW in 2006. In

April 2007, Photon Consulting forecasted 2010 revenues from sales of solar

energy equipment of US$ 90 billion, up from US$ 20 billion in 2006. Demand for

silicon for solar cells is expected to increase from 41,000 tons in 2006 to 120,000

tons in 2010 and 400,000 tons in 2015.

Worldwide increased demand for offshore renewable energy (ORE)

industries and aquaculture requires developing efficient tools to optimize the use

of offshore space, reducing anthropic pressure. The synergetic development of

marine renewable energy infrastructure with marine culture has been

hypothesized as a way to reduce costs through shared infrastructure. According

to Demmer et al. (2022), it is essential to consider the potential synergy between

aquaculture and offshore renewable energy to facilitate the efficient reduction of

costs associated with fish farming via the use of renewable energy.

Renewable energy creates multiple public benefits such as environmental

improvement (reduction of power plant greenhouse emissions, thermal and noise

pollution), increased fuel diversity, reduction of energy price volatility effects on

the economy, national economic security (fossil energy is vulnerable to political

instabilities, trade disputes, embargoes, and other disruptions, an increase of

economic productivity and GDP through more efficient production processes.

Furthermore, renewable energy offers development benefits (preventing money

flow abroad, electrifying rural and remote villages in developing countries, and

creating new jobs). Some renewable technologies like biomass are labor

intensive because growing, harvesting, and transporting biomass fuels require

labor. According to the New York State Energy Office, wind energy systems

create 25–70% more jobs than conventional power plants producing the same

electricity. Environmental cost–benefit analysis is applied to evaluate renewable

energy projects. As an additional point of interest, Chel and Kaushik (2011) have

highlighted the need to use renewable energy systems for sustainable agriculture

as a necessity for the promotion of sustainable practices.

According to Gustav et al. 2008, renewable energies (RE) represent a

cornerstone to steer our energy system in the direction of sustainability and

supply security. Generating electricity, heat, or biofuels from renewable energy

sources has become a high priority in energy policy strategies at the national and
global levels. Challenging goals for these "new" supply options to meet our

energy demands have been set, e.g., at the European level, by the commitment

to meeting 20% of the overall energy demand from renewable energy sources by

2020. It also highlighted that renewable energy sources have been facing

growing importance in the European and global energy markets due to various

benefits associated with their use: RE technologies help decrease import

dependency, diversify sources of production, and contribute to sustainable

development. A broad set of technology options and resources exists today.

According to the article of Pablo del Rio 2007, apart from contributing to

the mitigation of GHG emissions, deploying renewable electricity Clean

Development Mechanism projects (RE-CDM) may provide substantial local

economic, social, and environmental sustainability benefits to host countries.

However, despite these advantages, a wide array of barriers prevents the

realization of these projects. They compete with other CDM options, leading to

cheaper GHG emissions reductions but not providing as many opportunities for

sustainable development in developing countries. This paper explores the

different barriers affecting the implementation of RE-CDM projects. It proposes

and analyses several policies and measures that could be implemented to

encourage their deployment by tackling those obstacles.

According to Wang et al. (2018), wind energy is not only an essential

component of the area of renewable energy but also plays a vital role in the field

of renewable energy internationally.

 According to Ozkan and Karagoz (2015), there has been a rise in the

number of efforts dedicated to the effective usage of renewable energy sources.

Additionally, the significance of regional variables in the deployment of renewable

energy in farms has been brought to light, indicating an anticipated growth in the

presence of renewable energy in the agricultural sector (Ruiz-Fuensanta et al.,

2019). Fish farming has created significant financial returns, with a benefit-cost

ratio of 1:1.96 (Bajkani et al., 2022). This has been shown via the use of

economic analysis of the industry. As an additional point of interest, the benefit-

cost ratio of fish farming has been determined to be 1:1.52 and 1:1.74,

respectively, when land rent is included and when it is not included (Aslam et al.,

2020). In addition, the solar-powered water pumping system that has been built

has the potential to cut down on labor expenses and give fish farms an

automated water pumping system that operates smoothly (Sarwar & Iqbal, 2022).

The use of renewable energy in aquaculture has been the focus of an

energy audit case-study analysis, which has proposed a framework for energy

audit and the utilization of renewable energy for a fish hatchery station located in

the Mediterranean region (Ioakeimidis et al., 2013). Additionally, the generation

of energy from the water flow output in fish tanks has been highlighted as a

viable renewable energy source, particularly in the aquaculture business

(Sivasambu & Ali, 2020). This is particularly relevant in the Aquaculture industry.

According to Chu et al.'s research from 2020, co-locating offshore renewable

energy production facilities with offshore fish farms has the potential to help

share the costs of floating platforms and mooring systems, which in turn may
assist in reducing operating expenditures. According to Chen and Gao (2023),

using renewable energy sources, such as geothermal and solar energy, has the

potential to drastically cut down on operating expenses in industrialized

aquaculture, resulting in economic benefits. Furthermore, according to Weiyu et

al. (2023), the incorporation of renewable energy sources into offshore

aquaculture systems has shown the ability to enhance environmental and energy

performance, which in turn contributes to a decrease in costs.

Furthermore, the use of renewable energy sources in fish farming has the

potential to result in economic viability, as shown by the levelized cost of energy

(LCOE), the internal rate of return (IRR), the net present value (NPV), and the

deferred pay-back time (Castro-Santos & Filgueira-Vizoso, 2019). In addition, the

use of solar-powered water pumping systems can automate the water supply in

fish farms, lowering labor expenses and guaranteeing that operations are carried

out effectively (Sarwar & Iqbal, 2022). In addition, using renewable energy

technologies in fish farming, such as solar technologies, can potentially improve

economic efficiency. This is especially true in dairy farms with relatively high

energy consumption (Snegirjovs et al., 2018).

In conventional fish farms, using alternative feeds, such as sausage that

has exceeded its expiration date, has shown the ability to cut production costs by

twenty-five to twenty-five percent (Muhibuddin & Zulbainarni, 2019). Furthermore,

according to Ahmed et al. (2008), the construction and administration of fish

farms has to center on gaining knowledge of production costs and identifying

areas in which production costs may be reduced.

RESEARCH FLOW

THEORIES LEGAL BASIS

 Basic Photovoltaic Theory  Republic Act No. 8435

- State that the electric generation by means
of photovoltaics has been useful in
converting the sun into electricity.
 Smart Grid Theory
“Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act
(AFMA) of 1997”, emphasizes adopting advanced
technologies, robust research and development
efforts, and establishing credit and financing
systems to support farmers, fisher folks, and
agricultural entrepreneurs.

- A smart grid enables interaction between the  Republic Act No. 9513
generation and load to optimally deliver
energy based on the operating conditions.
"Renewable Energy Act of 2008," designed to
propel the country's development, utilization, and
 The Role of Renewable Energy Prosumers in commercialization of renewable energy resources.
Implementing Energy Justice Theory
 Republic Act No. 11285
- Investigate the importance and compatibility
of energy prosumers with energy justice "Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act," aim of
theory in the context of European Union
ingraining energy efficiency and conservation as a
(EU) law.
fundamental aspect of national life.

INPUT

 Primary Data
 Surveys and Interviews
 Energy consumption data

 Secondary Data
 Literature
 Studies
 Technical specifications

PROCESS

 Data Collection
 Renewable Energy Technology Selection
 Analysis and Comparison
 Results and Discussion
 Conclusion
 Recommendations

OUTPUT
Sustainable and Efficient Cost Reduction of fish farming through the integration of renewable
energy

Figure 1. Research Flow

PROBLEM STATEMENT

In order to achieve sustainable and economical fish farming, this study

aims to investigate the integration of renewable energy sources into fish farming.

It specifically aimed to address the issues listed below:

1. What emerging renewable energy technologies have the potential to

enhance fish farming's sustainability even more?

2. What technical challenges must be resolved for aquaculture operations to

successfully integrate renewable energy?

3. What are the environmental and economic benefits of using particular

renewable energy technologies in fish farming?

4. How can aquaculture effectively incorporate renewable energy to reduce

operational costs?

5. What knowledge-sharing initiatives can help aquaculture operators

implement renewable energy solutions?

SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS

In order to address cost inefficiencies in the fish farming industry, this

study aims to assess how renewable energy sources can be applied practically.

An extensive examination of economic models, environmental effects, and

energy consumption patterns will all be part of this research. The adaptability of
various technological solutions to various aquaculture settings will receive

particular attention.

This study recognizes how geographic differences affect how renewable

energy can be used in fish farming. The viability of implementation may be

impacted by technical limitations relating to the availability and efficiency of

equipment. Economic factors can present difficulties, such as changing prices.

Results may be impacted by changing policies and regulatory dynamics. The

study acknowledges that data limitations and suppositions make it challenging to

perform thorough environmental assessments.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Individuals/Families. Families embracing renewable energy practices can serve

as role models within their communities, inspiring others to adopt sustainable

practices in their livelihoods.

Community. Adopting renewable energy solutions can positively impact local

communities by creating jobs in the renewable energy sector and improving the

quality of life for fish farming communities.

Residents. The research can serve as a platform for educating stakeholders in

the aquaculture industry and the wider public about the benefits and feasibility of

renewable energy integration.

Future Researchers. Future researchers have the opportunity to further

advance knowledge and understanding in the critical area of aquaculture

sustainability and renewable energy integration.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES

DESIGN

The research design for this study will employ a mixed-methods approach,

combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. This

approach will allow for a comprehensive understanding of the integration of

renewable energy sources in fish farming operations and its impact on cost

reduction. Data collection includes on-site assessments, surveys, and interviews

with fish farmers. The chosen renewable energy technologies are evaluated

based on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to diverse fish farming.

ENVIRONMENT

This research will be conducted in the province of Bohol.

Map of Bohol

SUBJECT

The research subject consists of renewable energy technology in fish

farming that can lead to more efficient cost management within the fish farming

industry.

INSTRUMENT

The instrument employed in this study includes Questionnaires and Semi-

structured interview guides gather information from fish farmers regarding their

current energy consumption practices, challenges faced, and perspectives on

renewable energy integration and to gain qualitative insights into their

experiences, perceptions, and potential barriers related to renewable energy

adoption in fish farming. It also includes Energy Meters which help to quantify

and analyze the energy consumption patterns in conventional fish farming

operations.

1.1 Surveys

Structured surveys are designed and administered to fish farmers to

collect quantitative data on the current energy consumption, operational costs,

and their willingness to adopt renewable energy.

Survey Questions for Fish Farmers:

Section 1: Demographics

1.1 What is the size of your fish farming operation?

o Small

o Medium

o Large

1.2 How many years have been involved in fish farming?

1.3 What is the primary species of fish you cultivate?

Section 2: Current Energy Consumption

 2.1 What is your average monthly energy consumption for fish farming

activities? (kWh)

2.2 Which energy sources are currently used in your operation?

o Electricity

o Diesel

o Other

Section 3: Renewable Energy Awareness

3.1 Are you familiar with renewable energy technologies for agricultural

use, including fish farming?

3.2 Have you considered adopting renewable energy in your fish farming

operation?

Section 4: Barriers to Renewable Energy Adoption

4.1 What do see as the main barriers to adopting renewable energy in

your fish farming operation?

4.2 Are financial considerations as a significant obstacle to adopting

renewable energy?

Section 5: Interest in Renewable Energy Technologies

5.1 Which renewable energy technologies are you the most interested in?

 Solar
  Wind

5.2 Would you be willing to invest in renewable energy technology for your

fish farm if financial barriers were addressed?

Section 6: Environmental Considerations

6.1 How important is environmental sustainability to your fish farming

practices?

6.2 Do you believe integrating renewable energy could positively impact

the environment around fish farm?

1.2 Interviews

In depth interviews are conducted with fish farmers to gather qualitative

insights into their experience, challenges and perspectives regarding the

integration of renewable energy in fish farming.

Interview Questions for Fish Farmers:

Section 1: Background and Current Practices

1.1 Can you provide an overview of your fish farming operation, including

the types of fish you cultivate and the scale of your operation?

1.2 How do you currently source and utilize energy for your fish farming

activities?
Section 2: Renewable Energy Awareness and Interest

2.1 Are you familiar with renewable energy technologies, specifically those

applicable to fish farming?

2.2 What sparked your interest in exploring renewable energy for your fish

farm?

Section 3: Barriers and Challenges

3.1 In your opinion, what are the main barriers or challenges to adopting

renewable energy in fish farming?

3.2 How do financial considerations influence your decision-making

regarding the integration of renewable energy technologies?

Section 4: Technology Preferences and Concerns

4.1 Have you considered specific renewable energy technologies for your

fish farm? If so, which ones and why?

4.2 What concerns or reservations do you have about implementing

renewable energy technologies in your operation?

Section 5: Environmental Considerations

5.1 How important is environmental sustainability in your fish farming

practices?
 5.2 Do you believe that adopting renewable energy could positively impact

the environmental sustainability of your fish farming operation?

Table 1. Data Collection on Energy Consumption

FISH LOCATION FISH TYPE FARM PRIMARY MONTHLY

FARM SIZE ENERGY ELECTRICITY
SOURCE USAGE

This expanded data table allows researchers to not only capture

information about the type and quantity of energy used but also to delve into

specific processes and challenges related to energy consumption in different fish

farming operations.
Statistical Treatment

Mean Energy Consumption:

 Farm Using Renewable Energy

 Farm Using Conventional Energy

Standard Deviation of Energy Consumption:

 Farm Using Renewable Energy

 Farm Using Conventional Energy

OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

Terms Definitions

_________________________________________________________________

Renewable Energy Energy derived from natural resources that are

renewable and replenished over time, such as

solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, and

biomass.

Fish Farming Also known as aquaculture, fish farming

involves the cultivation of fish for commercial

purposes.

Cost Reduction The process of decreasing the overall

expenses or expenditures associated with fish

farming operations.

Energy Efficiency A measure of how effectively an energy source

is utilized in a process or system.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane,

released into the atmosphere, contributing to

the greenhouse effect and climate change.

Aquaculture The controlled cultivation of aquatic organisms,

including fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants,

 typically in tanks, ponds, or other confined

environments.

Carbon Footprint The total amount of greenhouse gases,

specifically carbon dioxide, produced directly or

indirectly by an individual, organization, event,

or product.

Grid Integration The incorporation of renewable energy

systems into the existing power grid, enabling

the seamless distribution and utilization of

renewable energy.

Solar Cells The individual units within a solar panel that

generate electricity.

Off-Grid Systems Solar panels are often employed in remote

areas or for applications like powering off-grid

homes, water pumps, and telecommunications

Photovoltaic Effect When sunlight strikes the semiconductor

material in a solar cell, it excites electrons,

creating an electric current. equipment.

Operational Costs The ongoing expenses associated with running

and maintaining the fish farming operation,

 including energy costs, labor, maintenance,

and other related expenditures.

Carbon Emissions The release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other

greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, often

associated with the use of fossil fuels for

energy production.

Feasibility The likelihood that a proposed project, in this

case, the integration of a hybrid solar system in

fish farming, can be successfully implemented,

considering technical, economic, and logistical

factors.
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