Solar expansion
The EPC contract for Phase 1, covering 45 megawatts alternating current (MWac), was awarded to Sinohydro Corp. Ltd. and PowerChina Philippines Corp. The two firms will handle the offshore and onshore EPC scopes of the project.
Both companies are subsidiaries of PowerChina, one of the world’s largest power construction enterprises with operations in more than 130 countries and regions.
“We are excited to begin the transition of our fossil fuel assets into renewable energy facilities,” said Antonio Miguel Alcantara, chief executive officer of Alsons Power, in a statement.
“This marks more than the start of a major project. It is a decisive step toward a more diversified energy portfolio and a more energy-secure future,” he added.
The Phase 1 project is among the winning bidders under the government’s Green Energy Auction Program Round 4 (GEAP-4), securing long-term offtake support and reinforcing the project’s viability.
Energy shift
According to Alsons Power, PowerChina brings extensive experience in clean and low-carbon energy projects, including expertise in investment, financing, engineering, construction, and operations.
“We are confident that our partnership with PowerChina, given its strong track record and technical expertise, will ensure the successful completion of SPPC Solar ahead of our GEAP-4 delivery target in September 2027,” Alcantara said.
He added that the partnership strengthens the company’s commitment to supporting the country’s energy transition and building a more sustainable and resilient power system.
At the same time, development activities for Phase 2 are already underway, including the evaluation of integrated solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage system (BESS) configurations.
Long-term value
The planned BESS component is expected to improve grid stability, support peak shaving, and address solar intermittency, enhancing the project’s reliability and long-term bankability.
Once completed, the 98.7-MWac solar facility is expected to generate enough electricity to power nearly 104,000 homes in Mindanao.
“SPPC Solar highlights our commitment to evolve with the country’s energy needs,” Alcantara said. “We are strategically transforming our existing assets to create long-term value and sustainable benefits.” —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
