The construction of a P2.37-billion solar power facility in the town of Ajuy, Iloilo has officially begun with a groundbreaking ceremony held on Friday, July 11.
The solar power plant, which will rise on a 47.86-hectare property in Barangay Tipacla, is expected to deliver 62 megawatts (MW) peak of clean power.
Developed by renewable power firm Jin Navitas Solaris, the Ajuy-1 Solar Power project will be connected to the Panay Island grid through the Sara–Panit 69-kilovolt transmission line.
The project was awarded under the Green Energy Auction Program 2 of the Department of Energy (DOE) and is entitled to a green energy tariff of P4.35 per kilowatt-hour.
The groundbreaking ceremony was led by DOE Secretary Sharon Garin.
“This groundbreaking initiative not only marks a significant step in reducing our carbon footprint but also empowers local communities by providing them with reliable and renewable energy resources,” Garin said.
“The Ajuy Solar Power Plant is a testament to our collective commitment to a sustainable energy future,” she added.
According to Solaris, the solar power plant could power more than 25,000 households annually.
“The project is also anticipated to improve grid stability in northern Iloilo, helping address peak demand and enhancing power reliability across the region,” the DOE said in a statement.
The project aligns with the Iloilo Provincial Renewable Energy Plan and the Iloilo Provincial Ordinance for Renewable Energy.
Solaris is an affiliate company of Palm Concepcion Power Corp. (PCPC), which operates the 135-megawatt coal-fired power plant in the town of Concepcion, Iloilo.IMT
