FEU Institute of Technology

Educational Innovation and Technology Hub

Loading...

Ian B. Benitez

39 Publications
Policy Trade-Offs Between Agriculture Sector and Renewable Energy Development in the Philippines

Renewable Energy Focus, (2026), Vol. 58, pp. 100870

Ian B. Benitez Ian B. Benitez & Shobhakar Dhakal

Journal Article | Published: May 12, 2026

View PDF
Abstract
Renewable energy (RE) applications in agriculture, such as solar irrigation, agrivoltaics, floating solar, biogas systems, and rural microgrids, can enhance resilience, reduce emissions, and support rural livelihoods. However, agricultural and land governance policies designed to protect food production and tenure can constrain renewable deployment, creating trade-offs between food security and energy transition goals. This study integrates international lessons with a stakeholder-based assessment of six Philippine agriculture and land governance policies. Based on a structured survey of 36 experts from academia, industry, government, and civil society, results show that the Department of Agriculture and Department of Energy - Renewable Energy Program for the Agri-Fishery Sector and the 2021 Department of Agrarian Reform amendment on land conversion are perceived as enabling, while the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act, Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law, Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms, and the 2002 conversion rules are viewed as restrictive. The findings suggest that policies prioritizing agricultural land protection and exclusive land use may be less flexible for RE integration, while more adaptive and coordinated frameworks may better support dual-use systems and decentralized deployment. Divergent perceptions reflect competing priorities of food security, tenure protection, and investment feasibility. These findings also reveal significant heterogeneity across stakeholder groups, with government respondents generally supporting existing regulatory frameworks, while NGOs and other stakeholders emphasize the need for reform and greater flexibility. The paper identifies reform pathways for synergistic approach focused on recognizing agrivoltaics within agricultural zoning, streamlining permitting procedures, and linking solar irrigation to groundwater and equity safeguards to better align food, land, and energy policy.
Artificial Intelligence for Optimizing Renewable Energy Systems: Techniques, Applications, and Future Directions

International Journal of Applied Power Engineering (IJAPE), (2026), Vol. 15, No. 1, pp. 275-288

Ian B. Benitez Ian B. Benitez , Edwin C. Cuizon, ... Daryl Anne B. Varela

Journal Article | Published: March 1, 2026

View PDF
Abstract
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is critically transforming the renewable energy sector. This review synthesizes AI's role in optimizing solar and wind energy systems, focusing on power forecasting, system optimization, and predictive maintenance. The research goal was to systematically analyze how diverse AI techniques enhance these critical aspects. Key findings indicate AI's capacity to substantially improve short-term solar irradiance and wind power forecasts (e.g., via SARIMAX, long short-term memory (LSTM), and hybrid deep learning models), dynamically manage energy flow in smart grids and microgrids, optimize maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in photovoltaic (PV) systems, and enable proactive maintenance through anomaly detection in wind turbines using IoT-integrated AI. Key conclusions reveal that AI significantly enhances the efficiency, reliability, and economic viability of solar photovoltaic and wind power generation, offering superior adaptability and predictive capabilities over traditional methods. While AI is important for the global transition to cleaner energy, persistent challenges related to data quality and availability, model interpretability, and cybersecurity must be addressed to fully unlock its potential in practical renewable energy applications.
Geospatial Analysis of Agrivoltaic Suitability in the Philippines

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, (2026), Vol. XLVIII-5/W4-2025, pp. 135-142

Jessa A. Ibañez, Ian B. Benitez Ian B. Benitez , ... Jeark A. Principe

Journal Article | Published: February 9, 2026

View PDF
Abstract
Solar energy deployment increasingly competes with prime agricultural lands, creating conflicts between energy goals and food security. To resolve these competing demands, our study identified where agrivoltaic systems—combining solar energy and agricultural production on the same land—should be strategically deployed across the Philippines. Using geospatial analysis which integrates terrain suitability, solar photovoltaic (PV) potential, and crop compatibility with shade-tolerant crops, we identified 10.09 million has of cropland suitable for agrivoltaics, representing 81.8% of the nation's agricultural land. Regions in the Mindanao island emerged as premier agrivoltaic deployment zones, combining maximum crop compatibility (15 shade-tolerant crops), high solar PV potential (683-687 MW), and substantial suitable areas (587,000-715,000 has). These findings provide actionable recommendations for strategic agrivoltaic deployment that advances both food security and renewable energy goals in the Philippines simultaneously.
Resilience of Renewable Energy Infrastructure to Climate-Induced Hazards: A Review of Design, Siting, and Control Strategies

2026 International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Computer, Data Sciences and Applications (ACDSA), (2026), pp. 1-6

Conference Paper | Published: February 7, 2026

Abstract
Renewable energy systems play a vital role in achieving global decarbonization goals but face growing exposure to climate-induced hazards such as heatwaves, typhoons, floods, and wildfires. These extreme events pose a threat to long-term energy security by compromising performance, damaging infrastructure, and increasing outage. This review assesses the resilience of renewable energy infrastructure by employing data-driven siting strategies, sophisticated control, and adaptive design. It emphasizes the importance of grid-forming inverters, fault-tolerant turbine control, and battery storage management in ensuring operational stability during periods of duress. Additionally, it investigates practitioner-oriented tools, such as parametric bill of materials (BOM) templates, one-page design protocols, hazard-measure-cost-benefit tables, and value-of-resilience (VoR) calculators, that simplify decision-making and quantify resilience benefits. The integration of these methods promotes cost efficiency and engineering robustness. Empirical performance validation under actual hazard conditions and standardized resilience metrics for low-inertia systems are the remaining research gaps. In conclusion, the integration of resilience principles into the design and governance of renewable energy systems guarantees the development of climate-ready, equitable, and dependable infrastructures that serve as the foundation for a sustainable low-carbon future.
IoT and Vision in Disaster Monitoring: Toward Resilient Infrastructure

2026 International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Computer, Data Sciences and Applications (ACDSA), (2026), pp. 1-6

Conference Paper | Published: February 7, 2026

Abstract
The increasing frequency and intensity of natural hazards highlight the limitations of traditional disaster monitoring systems that rely on static sensors and delayed reporting. Advances in the Internet of Things and computer vision now enable distributed, real-time observation across multiple hazards. IoT networks provide fine-scale measurements of environmental and structural parameters, while vision systems using cameras, drones, and satellite imagery deliver spatial verification and automated impact assessment through artificial intelligence. When integrated, these technologies improve detection accuracy, shorten response times, and strengthen situational awareness. This review synthesizes recent global developments across three dimensions: technology, resilience, and governance. The analysis examines hybrid architectures that merge IoT and vision systems, evaluates continuity strategies such as renewable-powered microgrids and UAV-based communications, and identifies governance challenges involving interoperability, privacy, and institutional coordination. A layered conceptual framework is proposed to link sensing, analytics, alerting, and policy mechanisms. Findings reveal persistent gaps in endurance during extended outages, the need for generalizable multihazard fusion models, and the importance of ethical data governance. The synthesis provides guidance for integrating IoT-vision systems into resilient, scalable, and inclusive early warning infrastructures aligned with global sustainability and disaster-risk-reduction goals.
SDGs in Electrical Engineering Education: A Data-Driven Mixed-Methods Analysis of Student Perceptions

2026 International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Computer, Data Sciences and Applications (ACDSA), (2026), pp. 1-6

Conference Paper | Published: February 7, 2026

Abstract
Electrical Engineering (EE) has substantial potential to advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Yet, limited evidence exists on how EE students perceive the alignment of their academic training with the SDG agenda, especially in the Global South. This study provides a mixed-methods, datadriven assessment of SDG awareness, curricular integration, and perceived professional relevance among EE students (n = 51) at a private university in the Philippines. The methodology integrates quantitative survey analytics using weighted scoring, descriptive statistics, and visualizations with qualitative thematic coding of open-ended responses. Results reveal a triangular gap: awareness is moderate across most goals, curricular integration is uneven and biased toward energy and infrastructure themes, while perceived professional relevance is consistently high. Students highlight contributions to renewable systems, grid modernization, and sustainable infrastructure, while also identifying gaps in equity, biodiversity, and circular economy integration. Qualitative responses reinforce these findings, pointing to isolated project-based engagement but limited systemic curricular embedding. The study demonstrates how data-driven mixedmethods analysis can inform curriculum design, highlighting both technical strengths and social blind spots, and provides baseline evidence for aligning EE education with global sustainability imperatives.
Artificial Intelligence and Policy Convergence in Smart Grid Development: Governance Challenges and Strategic Enablers in Developing Economies

2026 International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Computer, Data Sciences and Applications (ACDSA), (2026), pp. 01-08

Conference Paper | Published: February 7, 2026

Abstract
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming modern power systems by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and optimized energy management. This paper presents a thematic narrative review of AI applications in smart grids, emphasizing their role in enhancing energy efficiency, grid stability, and renewable energy integration. The analysis synthesizes evidence from developing economies where AI adoption is constrained by governance, institutional, and infrastructural barriers. Key challenges include fragmented regulatory frameworks, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, data-quality issues, and skill shortages that hinder effective digitalization. The study highlights policy and technological synergies required to advance AI-driven smart grids, focusing on harmonized data standards, capacitybuilding programs, and public-private partnerships. Strategic enablers such as interoperability frameworks, digital infrastructure investments, and regional cooperation are identified as essential to fostering inclusive and resilient energy transitions. The findings underscore that bridging the policytechnology gap through transparent, adaptive, and ethical AI governance is vital for achieving sustainable and equitable energy futures in developing regions.
Climate Change Impacts on Power System Reliability and Protection: A Review of Vulnerabilities and Adaptive Engineering Approaches

2026 International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Computer, Data Sciences and Applications (ACDSA), (2026), pp. 1-6

Conference Paper | Published: February 7, 2026

Abstract
Extreme weather, temperature fluctuations, and long-term changes in demand patterns are just a few of the previously unheard-of stresses that climate change brings to power systems. These occurrences jeopardize grid dependability, put traditional security measures to the test, and reveal weaknesses in operational procedures and infrastructure. This study examines the various ways that climate change affects the protection and dependability of power systems, highlighting the necessity of adaptive engineering techniques. Dynamic line rating (DLR), climate-integrated load forecasting, and adaptive protection schemes backed by machine learning and wide-area monitoring are important tactics. The review highlights important research gaps in probabilistic coordination, climate downscaling, and sensor trust while synthesizing recent developments. This work advances the development of climate-resilient power systems by coordinating technical innovation with resilience objectives.
Climate-smart aquaculture: Innovations and challenges in mitigating climate change impacts on fisheries and coastal agriculture

Aquaculture and Fisheries, (2025), Vol. 11, No. 2, pp. 221-231

Jaynos R. Cortes, Ian B. Benitez Ian B. Benitez , ... Daryl Anne B. Varela

Journal Article | Published: December 24, 2025

View PDF
Abstract
This review examines the integration of climate-smart aquaculture (CSAq) as a strategy to enhance the resilience and sustainability of global aquaculture and coastal agriculture in the face of climate change. CSAq encompasses innovations such as integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), genetic advancements, renewable energy integration, and optimized water management, all aimed at minimizing environmental impacts while maintaining productivity. As climate change introduces threats like ocean acidification, temperature fluctuations, and extreme weather events, CSAq offers adaptive solutions critical for preserving marine ecosystems, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and sustaining food security. The review emphasizes that the successful adoption of CSAq is contingent upon supportive policies, cross-sectoral collaboration, and socio-economic considerations, including gender inclusivity and community involvement. As aquaculture's role in food security continues to grow, CSAq provides a pathway for mitigating climate impacts while promoting sustainable development. This review underscores the necessity of climate-smart approaches for building resilient food systems that can adapt to a changing climate and sustain livelihoods in vulnerable coastal regions.
A Multi-Stakeholder Assessment of the Implications of Non-Energy Policies on Renewable Energy Development in the Philippines

Energy for Sustainable Development, (2025), Vol. 91, pp. 101919

Ian B. Benitez Ian B. Benitez & Shobhakar Dhakal

Journal Article | Published: December 22, 2025

View PDF
Abstract
Achieving a just and accelerated renewable energy (RE) transition in the Philippines requires not only technological innovation but also coherent and cross-sectoral policy alignment. Non-energy policies can facilitate or hinder the RE development. Non-energy policies, particularly those governing land use, permitting, and environmental regulation, and other significantly shape the feasibility of RE deployment. However, the analyses and evidences on implications of the non-energy policies on RE development are scarce, especially in the context of developing countries. This study provides a comprehensive, stakeholder-informed assessment of 43 national-level policy instruments across five domains in the Philippines: Energy Policy and Regulation, Climate Change and Sustainability, Environmental and Natural Resource Conservation, Agriculture and Rural Development, and Land Use and Property Rights. In this study, using a modified Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) interaction framework, stakeholders from academia, government, industry, and non-governmental organizations evaluated each policy's influence on RE development using a seven-point scale. Weighted average (WA) scores were computed to determine whether policies act as enablers or constraints. Results show that energy and climate policies are strongly supportive due to clear mandates and institutional coordination, whereas land governance and agrarian reform policies are viewed as restrictive because of procedural uncertainty and tenure risks. Environmental policies are generally enabling but raise permitting concerns. Divergent stakeholder perceptions underscore the need for inclusive and transparent governance. The study concludes that accelerating the RE transition will depend on harmonizing institutional mandates, reforming land-use frameworks, enabling decentralized systems, and strengthening technical and governance capacity across all sectors.

A Time Capsule Where Research Rests, Legends Linger, and PDFs Live Forever

Repository is the home for every research paper and capstone project created across our institution. It’s where knowledge kicks back, ideas live on, and your hard work finds the spotlight it deserves.

© 2026 Educational Innovation and Technology Hub. All Rights Reserved.