Philippines’ Aurora economic zone plans 1GW solar project

Construction is targeted to begin in 2027.

The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Huge Energy Co., Ltd. and Dong-A Global for an $131m (PHP8.2b) renewable energy project in Casiguran, Aurora.

The project will develop a 1,000-megawatt (MW) solar power facility with a battery energy storage system (BESS) and power substation. It is expected to take three to four years to complete, with construction targeted to start in 2027.

APECO President and Chief Executive Officer Undersecretary Gil Taway IV said a stable and reliable power supply is essential to attracting more investments to the economic zone.

“But before any of this can happen, there must be energy. Not just any energy but clean energy and reliable energy. This is why renewable energy is an essential part of APECO’s development strategy,” he said.

The project will be developed in three phases. The first phase will involve a solar photovoltaic power generation facility, a BESS and a power substation, with an initial target capacity of about 100 MW.

The second phase will add 350 MW of generation capacity through solar and waste-to-energy technologies, while the third phase will add another 550 MW.

Huge Energy Stock Co., Ltd., a Chinese solar mounting system manufacturer, will lead the project’s technical and financial aspects in partnership with Dong-A Global. APECO will oversee economic zone development, site administration and coordination with government agencies.

The companies are expected to submit feasibility studies and other regulatory documents later this year.

Taway said the additional power capacity could help APECO attract industries, support digital infrastructure and data centres, expand manufacturing and logistics activities, and enable value-added activities in agriculture and fisheries.

“Just as important, it advances our energy security, builds local skills, and creates more opportunities for employment and economic participation for the people of Aurora,” he added.