Basic Energy Corporation (BEC) announced that its Cadiz 1 solar project in Negros Occidental has secured a certificate of authority (COA) from the Department of Energy (DOE).
In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Wednesday, March 26, BEC stated that the COA allows it to obtain the necessary permits and tenure instruments to proceed with the renewable energy facility's development.
The certificate also authorizes BEC to begin procurement activities in preparation for the 25-year solar energy operating contract (SEOC).
The Cadiz 1 solar project, situated on a 30-hectare site in Cadiz, Negros Occidental, is projected to have a generation capacity of 43 megawatt-peak (MWp).
This development follows the board’s approval of the SEOC application, which was submitted in late 2024, and the awarding of the COA for the Bataan solar project.
Oscar De Venecia, Jr., Basic Energy vice chairman and chief executive officer, said this progress will contribute to the country’s renewable energy (RE) portfolio.
“This milestone reinforces our commitment to expanding renewable energy solutions in the Philippines. Basic Energy Corporation is eager to advance the Cadiz 1 Solar Power Project and will provide updates as it progresses,” he stated.
Moving forward, the company will initiate key development steps, including securing approvals from national agencies and local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental, and conducting a system impact study (SIS) with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to assess the transmission system's capacity for a new connection.
In addition to its solar projects, BEC is involved in alternative fuels, oil, and gas exploration and development.
Earlier this month, the company announced its plans to develop 500 MW of wind and 500 MW of solar energy projects over the next five years.