
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XXVI October 2025 | Special Issue on Education
www.rsisinternational.org
sources (DOE, 2023). Despite existing policies, limited infrastructure and investment continue to slow progress.
However, universities are emerging as pioneers in solar adoption. For example, the University of the Philippines
Manila expanded its solar installations, cutting costs and emissions (UP System, 2023). Central Luzon State
University installed a 997-kW rooftop system that reduced electricity bills by 20% (CLSU, 2023), demonstrating
the potential of solar in academic settings.
Economic feasibility remains one of solar energy’s most substantial advantages. As PV system costs decline,
institutions can achieve long-term savings while reducing operational expenses. Government incentives,
including tax credits, net metering, and feed-in tariffs, further support financial viability (ERC, 2023).
Additionally, the solar sector creates employment in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance, contributing
to local economies (DOLE, 2023).
Notre Dame of Dadiangas University – Glamang Campus (NDDU-GC) has a strong opportunity to transition to
solar energy. Rising electricity costs and dependence on non-renewables create financial strain. Installing a solar
PV system could reduce long-term expenses and align with national climate goals. Enhanced solar
technologies—such as bifacial and tandem panels—can boost system efficiency and reduce the levelized cost of
electricity (NREL, 2023). With reliable energy storage options, solar systems at NDDU could provide a stable
and sustainable power supply.
Beyond cost and reliability, solar energy plays a vital role in environmental sustainability. The energy sector
accounts for nearly 73% of global greenhouse gas emissions (IPCC, 2023). Transitioning to renewables like
solar is essential for meeting climate targets. A 100-kW solar system can offset around 96 metric tons of CO₂
annually (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA], 2023). Additionally, solar PV systems conserve water,
unlike conventional power plants that require significant water resources (World Bank, 2023). By adopting solar,
NDDU can reduce its carbon footprint, lower water usage, and contribute to biodiversity conservation.
Despite its promise, the main barrier to solar adoption at NDDU-GC is the high upfront investment. However,
through strategic planning, partnerships with government and private stakeholders, and institutional
commitment, these challenges can be overcome. A solar transition will not only provide economic and
environmental benefits but also serve as a model for sustainability in higher education.
LITERATURE REVIEW
This literature review examines existing studies on solar energy implementation in academic institutions,
focusing on system design, energy yield, and cost-efficiency. Insights from these studies will support the
formulation of a sustainable and context-appropriate solar energy plan for the NDDU–Glamang Campus.
The transition to renewable energy sources, particularly solar energy, has been extensively studied due to its
potential to provide sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional fossil
fuels. Numerous studies have explored the efficiency, economic benefits, and environmental impact of solar
energy in various sectors, including educational institutions. The growing global commitment to reducing
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and mitigating climate change has further emphasized the need for cleaner
energy sources. This literature review examines existing research on solar energy optimization outcomes,
financial feasibility, and its role in environmental sustainability, providing a comprehensive foundation for
assessing its implementation at NDDU-GC.
By analyzing relevant studies, this review aimed to contextualize the potential cost savings, energy conservation,
and carbon emission reductions associated with solar power. Furthermore, it explores the broader environmental
benefits by quantifying CO₂ reduction in terms of trees planted, cars' annual emissions avoided, waste and paper
recycling, and reductions in fossil fuel dependency. Additionally, the review discusses the importance of
renewable energy adoption in educational institutions, highlighting its role in enhancing energy efficiency,
promoting sustainability awareness, and reducing operational costs. Through this literature review, the study
establishes a strong theoretical basis for evaluating the feasibility and long-term benefits of solar energy adoption
at NDDU-GC.