AboitizPower enhances grid stability with Laoag solar plant amid energy supply challenges in the Philippines

Amid recent energy supply challenges, Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. (ARI), the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower), announced the addition of the 159 MWp Laoag Solar Power Plant in Aguilar, Pangasinan. This strategic move aims to increase electricity efficiency and reduce the burden on the national grid.

There have been multiple yellow and red alerts in the Philippines in recent weeks due to power plant failures and rising demand, compounded by high temperatures. Yellow alerts indicate tight operating margins for emergency requirements, while red alerts indicate insufficient supply to meet consumer demand.

Aboitiz Renewables Inc. CEO Jimmy Villaroman highlighted the importance of the Laoag Solar Power Plant along with the 94 MWp Cayanga-Bugallon Solar Power plant, providing a total of 200 MW of capacity for sale. These projects can make a significant contribution to the country’s energy security efforts during challenging times.

Using non-agricultural land for solar fields helps protect valuable agricultural land and supports the agricultural economy, with each MW of solar power typically requiring about one hectare of land.

Further strengthening energy diversification, the upcoming 17 MW Tiwi binary geothermal power plant in Albay will use residual heat from geothermal processes to generate additional electricity, while the recently operational 24 MW Magat Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Luzon supports grid stability through support services.

ARI’s expansion plans include 1,200 MW of new solar, geothermal and energy storage capacity, with the second phase targeting an additional 1,700 MW by 2030. These initiatives are in line with the Philippine government’s goals of achieving 35% renewable energy by 2030. and 50% by 2040, positioning AboitizPower as a key player in advancing sustainable energy solutions across the country.

Related