ACEN powers up Cagayan with 133-MW solar farm, lights up 45,000 homes

June 4, 2025
11:47AM PHT

Ayala-led ACEN Corp. has energized its newest solar project in Lal-lo, Cagayan, delivering 133 megawatts of clean energy to the Luzon grid.

Developed with CleanTech Renewable Energy 4 Corp., the Cagayan North Solar plant is the first utility-scale solar facility in the province. 

It spans 115 hectares and produces 188 gigawatt-hours of power each year, enough to supply 45,000 homes and offset 128,000 metric tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

Management’s view 

“Cagayan North Solar is the first renewable energy project in Cagayan supplying clean power to the Luzon grid,” said Eric Francia, president and CEO of ACEN.

“As demand for electricity continues to grow, this project plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s energy supply through reliable and sustainable generation,” he added. 

Sustainable future 

“The Cagayan North Solar power plant is more than just an energy source, it’s a symbol of progress. By delivering clean, renewable electricity to the grid, it strengthens the Philippines’ energy resilience while reducing carbon emissions,” said CleanTech president and CEO Salvador Antonio Castro Jr.  

“For host communities, it means new jobs, better infrastructure, and a sustainable future. With every ray of sunlight captured, we illuminate lives and power a nation towards a greener tomorrow,” he said. 

1,000 green jobs 

Beyond power generation, the project brought direct economic benefits to Lal-lo. About 1,000 green jobs were created during construction. 

ACEN and CleanTech also built the first high school in Barangay Bical, worth P14 million, and funded two community gymnasiums in nearby barangays worth P4 million in total.

 During Typhoon Ofel in 2024, ACEN and Ayala Foundation provided relief to 500 affected families. Outgoing Mayor Florante Pascual praised the solar farm as a model for sustainable growth, noting how it cuts dependence on fossil fuels while supporting inclusive development.  

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