MGEN Renewable Energy Inc. (MGreen), the renewable energy subsidiary of Meralco PowerGen Corporation (MGEN), has achieved a major milestone in the Philippines’ clean energy transition with the early completion of its 19.8-MWac Bongabon Solar Power Plant in Nueva Ecija. The facility, delivered six months ahead of schedule, is the first project under the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Green Energy Auction Program (GEA 2) to be completed ahead of time, reinforcing the company’s commitment to fast-tracking renewable energy development in the country.
The Bongabon Solar Power Plant, located in Barangay Pesa, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija, will provide clean energy to at least 20,000 households and establishments, significantly contributing to the country’s renewable energy supply and energy security goals. The project supports the DOE’s target of increasing the renewable energy mix to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040, helping reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels.
MGreen President and CEO Dennis B. Jordan emphasized the significance of the project, stating that more than just a solar power plant, MGreen Bongabon Solar is about creating opportunities, reducing the carbon footprint, and setting a new standard for renewable energy initiatives in the country. The facility is expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 19,000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) annually, which is equivalent to the carbon absorption of 211,000 tree seedlings grown over ten years, according to estimates using the Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator.
Beyond clean energy production, the project has created significant economic opportunities for Bongabon and nearby communities. The local government has welcomed the initiative, recognizing its impact on employment and economic development. Bongabon Mayor Ricardo Padilla expressed gratitude for the project, emphasizing its role in providing job opportunities for the local workforce. He stated that he is thankful for the initiative as it will create jobs for the people of Barangay Pesa, which is crucial for the community.
As with its other renewable energy projects, MGEN prioritizes hiring local and skilled residents, ensuring that the economic benefits of the project are directly felt by host communities.
The inauguration of the Bongabon Solar Power Plant was attended by key officials from the Department of Energy (DOE), Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). These agencies play a critical role in ensuring that the project is fully integrated into the power grid, delivering safe and reliable electricity.
DOE Assistant Secretary Mario Marasigan emphasized the long-term benefits of renewable energy investments, particularly for host communities. He stated that the local barangay will be receiving most of the benefits from this project. He also underscored the importance of sustaining renewable energy initiatives, adding that they want to ensure that the project will continue to operate for at least the next 20 years.
Edward Neri, Officer-in-Charge of the DOE’s Solar Energy Management Group, acknowledged the contribution of the project in advancing energy independence and reducing the country’s carbon footprint. ERC Director Sharon Montañer echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the Bongabon Solar project is a prime example of how private sector initiatives align with the GEA program, which provides a much-needed boost to the country’s clean energy capacity.
The successful energization of the Bongabon Solar Power Plant marks a major step forward in MGreen’s renewable energy roadmap. The company remains committed to expanding its clean energy portfolio and has set a target of developing up to 1,500 MW of attributable renewable capacity by 2030.
Looking ahead, MGreen is set to add an additional 85.2 MWac of solar capacity in 2025, which includes the construction of a new solar power plant in Cordon, Isabela and the expansion of an existing solar facility in Baras, Rizal. The company is also preparing for the completion of Phase 1 of the MTerra Solar project in Nueva Ecija by next year, which will be one of the largest integrated solar PV and battery energy storage systems in the world.
The completion of the Bongabon Solar Power Plant ahead of schedule highlights the growing role of renewable energy in the Philippines. As MGreen continues its expansion, do you think more private sector investments will accelerate the country’s clean energy transition? Share your thoughts in the comments below and follow Power Philippines for the latest updates on renewable energy developments.
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