Engineering

2. FUNDAMENTALS OF POWER PLANT ENGINEERING LAB
Powerplant Engineering Laboratory Evaluation 1

3. Pagudpud Wind Power Plant
The Pagudpud Wind Power Plant, also known as the Bangui Wind Farm, is a wind energy
project located in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. It is one of the largest wind farms in
Southeast Asia and has become an iconic landmark in the region.
History:
The idea for the wind farm originated in the late 1990s when the local government of Ilocos
Norte recognized the region's potential for wind energy production. In 1998, the provincial
government collaborated with the NorthWind Power Development Corporation, a private
company, to develop the wind farm.

4. Construction of the Bangui Wind Farm began in 2005 and was completed in 2008. The project
was initiated to diversify the country's energy sources and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
The wind farm was strategically located along the coastal areas of Bangui Bay, where strong
and consistent winds prevail.
Cost:
The total cost of the Pagudpud Wind Power Plant was approximately USD 48 million. The
project was funded through a combination of private investments, loans, and grants. The Asian
Development Bank provided a loan of USD 30 million, while the Global Environment Facility
(GEF) granted USD 6 million. The remaining funds were raised by the NorthWind Power
Development Corporation.
The initial investment in the wind farm included the procurement and installation of 20 wind
turbines, each with a capacity of 1.65 megawatts (MW). The turbines were manufactured by
Enercon, a leading wind turbine manufacturer based in Germany. Additionally, the project
budget encompassed the construction of infrastructure such as access roads, transmission
lines, and a substation.
It's important to note that the cost figures provided are based on the available information up
until my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. Please keep in mind that costs and financial
details may have changed since then.

5. The Pagudpud Wind Power Plant has proven to be a successful renewable energy project,
contributing significantly to the country's clean energy goals and demonstrating the viability of
wind power in the Philippines.
The Pagudpud Wind Power Plant is a wind farm located in the municipality of Pagudpud, Ilocos
Norte, Philippines. It is a renewable energy facility that harnesses the power of the wind to
generate electricity. Here's a step-by-step explanation of how the Pagudpud Wind Power Plant
works:
Site Selection: The first step in establishing the wind power plant is to identify a suitable location
with consistent and strong wind resources. Pagudpud, being a coastal area with high wind
speeds, was chosen as an ideal site for the wind farm.
Feasibility Study: A comprehensive feasibility study is conducted to assess the economic,
technical, and environmental viability of the project. Factors such as wind resource assessment,
land availability, grid connectivity, and potential environmental impacts are evaluated.

6. Turbine Selection: Based on the wind resource assessment, wind turbines are selected. These
turbines are specifically designed to capture wind energy and convert it into mechanical power.
Factors such as turbine efficiency, rotor diameter, tower height, and capacity are considered
during the selection process.
Land Acquisition and Preparation: Once the turbine type and layout are finalized, the necessary
land is acquired for the wind farm. The land is cleared, leveled, and prepared to accommodate
the turbine foundations, access roads, and other infrastructure.
Turbine Installation: The wind turbines are transported to the site and erected on the prepared
foundations. Each turbine consists of a tower, rotor, and nacelle. The nacelle houses the
generator and other key components that convert the rotational energy of the rotor into electrical
energy.
Electrical Infrastructure: A substation is constructed near the wind farm to collect and transform
the electricity generated by the turbines. The electricity is stepped up to a higher voltage level for
efficient transmission through the power grid.

7. Grid Connection: Transmission lines are installed to connect the wind farm's substation to the
main power grid. This enables the generated electricity to be fed into the grid and distributed to
consumers.
Operation and Maintenance: The wind power plant requires regular maintenance and monitoring
to ensure its optimal performance. This includes periodic inspections, lubrication, and repairs.
Technicians are employed to carry out these tasks and address any operational issues that may
arise.
Power Generation: As the wind blows, it causes the rotor blades of the turbines to spin. The
rotational motion is transmitted to the generator in the nacelle, which produces electricity. The
electricity generated is sent to the substation and then injected into the power grid.
Environmental Impact: The Pagudpud Wind Power Plant helps reduce greenhouse gas
emissions by producing clean, renewable energy. It contributes to mitigating climate change and
promoting sustainable development. The project's environmental impact is carefully managed to
minimize any potential adverse effects on wildlife, habitats, and local communities.

8. By harnessing the power of the wind, the Pagudpud Wind Power Plant provides a renewable
source of electricity, contributing to the country's energy mix and supporting the transition to a
more sustainable future.
Helios Solar Power Plant in Cadiz, Negros Occidental, Philippine
The solar power plant named "Helios Solar Power Plant" in Cadiz, Negros Occidental,
Philippines. Here's an explanation of its history and the general cost considerations for solar
power plants:
History:

9. The Helios Solar Power Plant is a utility-scale solar facility located in Cadiz City, Negros
Occidental, Philippines. It is developed and operated by Helios Solar Energy Corporation, a
subsidiary of Philippine utility company Aboitiz Power Corporation. The project was established
as part of the country's efforts to increase renewable energy generation and reduce reliance on
fossil fuels.
The construction of the Helios Solar Power Plant began in 2014, and it was officially
commissioned in 2016. The solar plant occupies a land area of approximately 175 hectares and
consists of thousands of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels that convert sunlight into electricity.
Cost:
The cost of a solar power plant can vary depending on various factors, such as the size of the
plant, the technology used, the site conditions, and the local market conditions. However,
specific information regarding the exact cost of the Helios Solar Power Plant in Cadiz is not
readily available.
The development and construction costs of a solar power plant typically include expenses
related to land acquisition, engineering and design, procurement of solar panels and other
equipment, installation and construction, grid connection infrastructure, and other associated
expenses. Additionally, factors such as labor costs, permitting and regulatory requirements, and
financing arrangements also influence the overall cost of the project.

10. It's worth noting that the cost figures for specific projects are generally not disclosed publicly,
and detailed cost breakdowns may be proprietary information held by the project developers.
Therefore, the precise cost of the Helios Solar Power Plant in Cadiz, Negros Occidental, is not
readily accessible.
If you require more up-to-date information on the Helios Solar Power Plant, including specific
cost details, I recommend reaching out to Aboitiz Power Corporation or referring to official
announcements or reports related to the project.
Diagram of Wind power system

11. Diagram of Solar power System
Comprehensive comparison between wind power plants and solar power plants:
Energy Source:
Wind Power Plant: Wind power plants harness the kinetic energy of wind to generate electricity.
Wind turbines convert the rotational energy of wind into electrical energy through generators.
Solar Power Plant: Solar power plants utilize photovoltaic (PV) panels to convert sunlight directly
into electricity through the photovoltaic effect.

12. Resource Availability:
Wind Power Plant: Wind power requires a consistent and sufficient wind resource. Wind turbines
typically require average wind speeds of around 6 to 9 meters per second (m/s) for optimal
operation.
Solar Power Plant: Solar power plants depend on sunlight availability. They can generate
electricity as long as sunlight is present, although variations in intensity due to weather
conditions can affect output.
Plant Capacity and Output:
Wind Power Plant: Wind power plants typically have higher capacity factors compared to solar
power plants. They can achieve capacity factors ranging from 30% to 50% or higher, depending
on wind resources.
Solar Power Plant: Solar power plants have lower capacity factors compared to wind power
plants. They generally achieve capacity factors ranging from 15% to 30%, influenced by factors
such as panel efficiency and sun exposure.
Land Requirement:
Wind Power Plant: Wind power plants require larger land areas for the installation of wind
turbines. The spacing between turbines is necessary to avoid wind interference, typically leading
to land use for wind farms.

13. Solar Power Plant: Solar power plants require substantial land areas for the installation of solar
panels. However, they can be installed on a variety of locations, including rooftops, open fields,
or solar parks, allowing for flexibility in land use.
Cost:
Wind Power Plant: The cost of wind power plants primarily depends on turbine capacity,
installation, grid connection, and maintenance. Costs have been decreasing over the years,
making wind energy increasingly competitive.
Solar Power Plant: The cost of solar power plants is mainly determined by the number and
efficiency of solar panels, installation, grid connection, and maintenance. Solar energy costs
have also been declining, and it has become cost-competitive with traditional energy sources in
many regions.
Environmental Impact:
Wind Power Plant: Wind power plants have minimal greenhouse gas emissions during operation
and contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. However, there can be impacts on bird and
bat populations and aesthetic concerns in some areas.
Solar Power Plant: Solar power plants are environmentally friendly, producing clean electricity
with no direct emissions during operation. The production and disposal of solar panels can have
environmental considerations, such as the use of materials and waste management.

14. Reliability and Grid Integration:
Wind Power Plant: Wind power can be variable due to fluctuating wind speeds. To ensure a
stable power supply, wind farms are often distributed across different locations and integrated
with grid management systems.
Solar Power Plant: Solar power is dependent on sunlight availability, which can vary due to
weather conditions and time of day. Solar power plants can also integrate with storage systems
and grid management strategies to ensure a consistent power supply.
In conclusion, wind power plants and solar power plants are both valuable sources of renewable
energy. Each technology has its advantages and considerations:
Wind power plants have higher capacity factors and can generate electricity consistently as long
as sufficient wind resources are available. They require larger land areas and can have aesthetic
and environmental impacts on bird and bat populations. Wind energy costs have been
decreasing, making it increasingly competitive.
Solar power plants rely on sunlight availability and have lower capacity factors compared to wind
power plants. They offer flexibility in land use, including rooftop installations. Solar energy costs
have also been decreasing and are now cost-competitive with traditional energy sources. Solar
power plants have minimal environmental impact during operation, although the production and
disposal of solar panels have some environmental considerations.

15. Ultimately, the choice between wind and solar power plants depends on factors such as
resource availability, land availability, local regulations, and project goals. Many regions
embrace a diversified approach, utilizing both wind and solar power plants to maximize
renewable energy generation and ensure grid stability. Both wind and solar power play crucial
roles in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change, and promoting a
sustainable energy future.
References:
1. Leilanie Adriano, “PAGUDPUD WIND FARM NOW BIGGEST IN PH, TO BOOST
RENEWABLE ENERGY”, March 24, 2022
https://www.philippine-resources.com/articles/2022/3/pagudpud-wind-farm-now-biggest-
in-ph-to-boost-renewable-energy
2. 81 MW Pagudpud Wind Farm, Ilocos Norte, Philippines
https://www.ghd.com/en/projects/81-mw-pagudpud-wind-farm-ilocos-norte-
philippines.aspx
3. Trinasolar, CAD
https://www.trinasolar.com/sites/default/files/CadizSolar_Philippines_CaseStudy0816FIN
AL.pdfIZ SOLAR POWER PLANT, PHILIPPINES

16. 4. MARCHEL P. ESPINA, Southeast Asia’s biggest solar farm opens in Negros Occidental,
MAR 3, 2016 10:48 PM PH
https://www.rappler.com/nation/124552-biggest-solar-farm-southeast-asia-cadiz-negros-
occidental/