Technosocial feasibility analysis of solar-powered UV-LED water treatment system in a remote island of Guimaras, Philippines

The technical and the social feasibility of using solar-powered ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV-LED) module for a microbial water treatment system in Panobolon Island, Central Philippines, were investigated. Technical feasibility was assessed through a laboratory scale prototype and water point source sampling in nine selected deep wells of Panobolon Island. On the other hand, social feasibility was determined from survey responses of the island residents. Results revealed that (1) regulated solar power is a suitable alternative power source for UV-LED apparatus, (2) all water point sources tested in Panobolon island were positive for Escherichia coli contamination, and (3) the proposed system is socially accepted by the residents. Therefore, it can be concluded that the solar-powered UV-LED microbial water treatment system proposed is a viable solution to improve the quality of the drinking water consumed by the residents.