Philippines' Mega Solar Farm Begins Commercial Power Delivery

MANILA, Philippines — Pangilinan-led Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN) has commenced commercial power delivery from a portion of the P200-billion MTerra Solar project, billed as the world’s largest integrated solar facility. MTerra Solar Phase 1 has started commercial operations for its 600 megawatt-alternating current (MWac) mid-merit capacity under its power supply agreement with utility giant Manila Electric Co. (Meralco). This follows the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines’ issuance of the final certificate of approval to connect, confirming the project’s readiness to safely and reliably integrate into the country’s transmission network. “This is a significant step toward the future of energy in the Philippines,” said Meralco and MGEN chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan. Spanning Nueva Ecija and Bulacan, MTerra Solar consists of a 3,500-MW solar farm equipped with a 4,500-MW-hour battery storage component. Upon full completion next year, the project is projected to power approximately 2.4 million households. “By combining solar power with battery storage at an unprecedented scale, we’re demonstrating how renewable energy can strengthen energy security, support economic growth and build a more resilient and sustainable power system for our country,” Pangilinan added. The Meralco Group inaugurated the MTerra Solar Phase 1 in July, less than two years after its groundbreaking in November 2024. In the upcoming months, another 250 MWac is expected to be brought into commercial operations under the same power supply deal with Meralco. “Reaching commercial operations reflects the determination, discipline and exceptional work of thousands of people who helped bring this landmark facility to life,” said MGEN president and CEO Emmanuel Rubio. “It also demonstrates what can be achieved when the government and the private sector work together toward a shared national purpose.” This development is seen as crucial for increasing the share of renewable energy in the Philippines' energy mix and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The large-scale deployment of battery storage systems, essential for stabilizing power supply, is particularly significant in mitigating risks of power shortages and supply fluctuations that the Philippines faces.