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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider The Stock Market devider ACEN powers up Luzon grid with first Cagayan solar plant

ACEN powers up Luzon grid with first Cagayan solar plant

Published Jun 4, 2025 12:41 pm  |  Updated Jun 4, 2025 01:10 pm

Ayala-led ACEN Corporation is expanding the country’s renewable energy (RE) shift with its 133-megawatt (MW) solar plant in Cagayan.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Wednesday, June 4, the company announced that this plant is the first in Cagayan to contribute to Luzon’s power grid. It's estimated to generate at least 188 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of RE annually.

The Cagayan North Solar Project, situated on a 155-hectare site in Lal-lo, Cagayan, began operations in 2024. According to ACEN, the facility can supply enough power for at least 45,000 households and is projected to cut carbon emissions by 128,000 metric tons.

Eric Francia, ACEN’s Chief Executive Officer and President, highlighted the project’s contribution to the Philippines’ evolving power mix.

“Cagayan North Solar is the first renewable energy project in Cagayan, supplying clean power to the Luzon grid. 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 stated.

The solar facility is a partnership with CleanTech Global Renewables, Inc., which holds a 40 percent stake in the project, while ACEN owns the remaining 60 percent.

Salvador Antonio Castro, Jr., President and CEO of CleanTech, added that the plant’s operations would also benefit Cagayan’s residents.

“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. 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 remarked.

During its construction phase, the Cagayan North Solar project created 1,000 green jobs, boosting local employment and economic activity in the area.

“Cagayan North Solar exemplifies Lal-lo’s commitment to sustainable development by prioritizing renewable energy sources. It reduces reliance on non-renewable energy, helping the municipality transition to a cleaner and greener future. The project also fosters inclusive development by channeling benefits directly to host communities,” said outgoing Lal-lo Mayor Florante Pascual.

Currently, ACEN has less than 7 GW of attributable RE capacity, which includes operational, under-construction, and committed projects. Beyond its local developments, the Ayala-led firm also has investments in strategic markets such as Australia, Vietnam, India, Laos, Indonesia, and the United States.

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