Techno-Economic Optimization of Off-Grid Hybrid Systems in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental Using the Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm

This study aims to bridge the gap in capacity and knowledge within Local Government Units (LGUs) regarding viable energy transition strategies by performing a technoeconomic analysis through optimization of a hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) for Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. The research involved assessing renewable energy resources, formulating mathematical and economic models, and employing the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) algorithm for system optimization. The most cost-effective configuration identified by the ABC algorithm comprises of 65 kW photovoltaic (PV) system and 250 battery units, excluding wind turbines or biomass gasifier. This setup yields a lower Net Present Cost (NPC) of ₱20.68 million, a Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) of ₱$\mathbf{ 1 6. 9 5 / k W h}$, and annual operating costs of ₱$\mathbf{9 3 0, 2 0 1. 6 1}$—lower than the results generated using HOMER software. All costs are expressed in Philippine Pesos (₱; approx. ₱$\mathbf{5 5}=1$ USD) to maintain local economic relevance. While the LCOE remains higher than current grid electricity rates, the proposed HRES represents a substantial step towards sustainable and potentially cost-effective local energy utilization. By providing data-driven insights, the study equips the LGU with foundation for informed renewable energy policymaking and accelerates the local energy transition.