DOE: 5 renewable energy projects now operational

Five renewable energy projects are now online as the Department of Energy (DOE) seeks to activate 25 projects totaling 1,471 megawatts (MW) by the end of April this year. 

“Every renewable energy project brought online strengthens our path toward energy independence, reduces our exposure to imported fuel volatility, and helps secure a cleaner and more resilient power system,” Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said in a statement.

“At a time of continuing volatility arising from the developments in the Middle East, fast-tracking our country’s renewable energy capacity is a critical strategic action to protect the Filipino people and the Philippine economy,” she added. 

The five operational projects, which have a total of 128.9 MW, are the following:

• Hermosa Solar Power Project of Solana Solar Alpha Inc. (20.6 MW)
• Taft Solar Power Project of Taft Solar Energy Corporation (17.5 MW)
• Biomass Cogeneration Plant (Expansion Project) of Central Azucarera de San Antonio (8 MW)
• Cordon Solar Power Project of Greenergy For Global Inc (52.8 MW) and
• Arayat 3A Solar Power Project of Citicore Solar Pampanga 1 Inc (30 MW).

The remaining 20 renewable energy projects are now in final phases of grid integration.

The DOE is working closely with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) to clear technical and regulatory hurdles for the remaining 20 projects expected later this month.  

The 25 projects are part of a presidential directive to fast-track 200 power plants over the next three years to meet rising electricity demand and improve grid reliability, the DOE added. — JMA, GMA News