SMC Global Light and Power Corp. (SGLPC), a subsidiary of San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp., is seeking approval to develop a 135-megawatt peak (MWp) solar project in Pagbilao, Quezon, with operations aimed for 2029.

The proposed solar facility, named Pagbilao 1, will be located in Barangay Ibabang Polo and is designed to add new renewable energy capacity to the Luzon grid. The company is currently waiting for its Environmental Compliance Certificate from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau Region 4A.

Construction is scheduled for the third quarter of 2027, while pre-commissioning activities are scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2028. Finally, full commercial operations are aimed at the second quarter of 2029.

If successful, the project will install 201,493 photovoltaic panels across 137.78 hectares, with the facility itself designed as a utility-scale solar plant that can supply electricity during peak daylight hours.

SGLPC plans to use 720-watt peak solar modules from Trina Solar and 344 Huawei string inverters with the company’s reasoning being that the selected equipment is designed to improve efficiency and provide advanced grid support features.

“This careful selection of proven, high-quality equipment minimizes technical risks and supports the project’s long-term operational and financial performance,” SGLPC said in its filing.

The company also made sure to note that the project will use existing access roads and will not encroach on protected areas, Ramsar sites, or cultural heritage properties.

“The solar project would contribute to the supply of energy in Luzon in order to cater to the demand of ongoing developments, growing population and industrialization,” the company said.

Beyond just power supply, the company pointed to the socio-economic benefits of the project. These range from local job creation all the way to a reduced dependence on fossil fuels. It also noted that the facility is expected to generate minimal operational noise and waste compared to more traditional power plants.

With several large-scale solar projects in the pipeline, how quickly can new renewable capacity come online to keep pace with Luzon’s growing demand?

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