Manuel V. Pangilinan’s (MVP) P200-billion MTerra Solar project has begun commercial operations, bringing an initial 600 megawatts (MW) of solar power into the supply of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco).
The first phase of the project started operating on Aug. 26 under a power supply agreement with Meralco, marking a major milestone for one of the country’s largest renewable energy developments.
First 600 MW Now Online
Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGen), the power generation arm of Meralco, said another 250 MW covered by the agreement is expected to come online in the coming months.
The project received its final connection certificate from the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP), allowing it to operate up to 950 MW of solar capacity together with an 825 MW battery energy storage system.
The battery system will allow excess solar power to be stored and used when needed, helping make renewable energy more reliable.
P200 Billion Investment in Clean Energy
Located across Nueva Ecija and Bulacan, MTerra Solar is being developed with a planned 3,500 MWp solar capacity and 4,500 MWh of battery storage.
The project is a joint venture between MGen and global infrastructure investor Actis.
MVP, who chairs Meralco and MGen, said the project demonstrates how combining solar generation with large-scale battery storage can help strengthen the country’s energy security.
Boost to Renewable Energy Push
The project comes as the Philippines works to expand renewable energy and meet rising electricity demand.
The country is targeting renewable sources to account for 35% of its power generation mix by 2030 and 50% by 2040.
With more capacity from MTerra Solar expected to come online, the project is set to provide a significant boost to the country’s clean energy supply while helping strengthen the reliability of electricity available to Filipino consumers.
