Ahead of schedule: MGreen's 19.8-MW Bongabon solar plant goes online
MGen Renewable Energy Inc. (MGreen), the renewable energy unit of Meralco PowerGen Corporation (MGen), has energized its 19.8-megawatt alternating current (MWac) solar power plant in Bongabon, Nueva Ecija.
Inaugurated on Tuesday, Feb. 18, the plant is expected to supply power to at least 20,000 households and establishments, contributing to the country's goal of increasing the renewable energy (RE) mix to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.
MGreen's Bongabon solar plant is the first project under the second Green Energy Auction (GEA2) to be completed, six months ahead of schedule, according to a statement from the company.
"The facility also strengthens MGen’s goal to develop up to 1,500 MW of attributable renewable energy capacity by 2030, reinforcing its role in delivering a greener and more reliable energy future for Filipinos," the statement added.
The plant is also expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 19,000 tons per year.
Dennis Jordan, MGreen president and chief executive officer, said the project's energization will bolster the Philippines' RE fleet.
“[MGreen Bongabon Solar is] more than just a solar power plant," he stated. “[It’s] about creating opportunities, reducing our carbon footprint, and setting a new standard for RE initiatives in our country."
Bongabon Mayor Ricardo Padilla noted that the project will also bring more job opportunities to the area.
Department of Energy (DOE) Assistant Secretary Mario Marasigan emphasized the benefits of the solar plant to the barangay, adding, “We want to make sure that the project you have installed will continue for at least the next 20 years.”
Officials from the DOE, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) attended the event.
“The Bongabon solar project is an example of how private sector initiatives align with the GEA program, providing a much-needed boost to our country’s clean energy capacity,” said Sharon Montañer, ERC director.
MGreen anticipates further expanding its solar capacity with a new 85.2 MWac solar plant in Cordon, Isabela, and the expansion of the Baras solar facility in Rizal. Its largest project to date, MTerra Solar, is slated for completion of the first phase by 2026.