The modernization project will raise the plant’s installed capacity from 112.5 megawatts (MW) to 126 MW.
First Gen’s geothermal subsidiary, Energy Development Corp. (EDC), will replace three 37.5-MW turbine generators that have operated for more than 40 years with three 42-MW units.
The upgrade will add 13.5 MW to First Gen’s renewable energy capacity. According to the company, the newer turbines will generate more electricity from the same amount of geothermal steam and help extend the plant’s operating life.
Commitment
“This modernization project reflects our commitment to continuous innovation and environmental stewardship,” said Engr. Noel Tan, head of EDC’s Southern Negros Geothermal Project (SNGP), in a statement.
“By upgrading our existing infrastructure to generate more electricity without needing additional steam extraction, we are maximizing our natural resources while helping accelerate the Philippines’ transition toward a decarbonized energy future.”
First Gen said the geothermal steam fields under SNGP have remained productive well beyond the 25-year average lifespan it cites for such facilities.
The company estimated that electricity generated by SNGP’s 222.5-MW facilities in 2025 avoided more than 1.03 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions compared with generating the same amount of electricity from coal-fired power plants.
Beyond its lifespan
First Gen said the Palinpinon-1 rehabilitation is part of its broader program to upgrade existing renewable energy facilities, extend their operating life and maintain a reliable supply of lower-carbon power.
First Gen operates 31 geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities nationwide with a combined generating capacity of more than 1,700 MW. Of this, more than 1,302 MW comes from geothermal plants operated by its subsidiary, EDC. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
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