The Department of Energy (DOE) in the Philippines says the country is on track to bring online more than 4 GW of new power generation capacity in 2024, of which almost 2 GW will come from solar energy.
Out of the 1.985 GW planned to be completed and operationalized, 966.3 MW will become operational by June 2024. Another 495 MW is currently under testing and commissioning and can already inject energy into the grid, according to the agency.
Another 590 MW of battery energy storage systems are also in the pipeline to be energized this year. Out of this planned capacity, 32.42 MW is already operational.
It explained, "These additional capacities will strengthen the reliability and stability of the grid, providing much-needed capacity to meet the growing energy demand in the country. The anticipated increase in capacity will prevent supply deficiencies and potential power interruptions, particularly during peak demand periods."
Most of the anticipated power generation capacity is located in Luzon with a combined 4.03 GW, followed by 80.25 MW in Visaya and 52.50 MW in Mindanao.
The Energy Department says 1.224 GW is scheduled to come online in Q2, 1.35 GW in Q3 and 1.57 GW in Q4 this year.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the Philippines' total operational renewable energy capacity at the end of 2023 was 7.77 GW. It comprises 1.67 GW solar PV capacity that increased by 50 MW in 2023.
Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla called upon the local government units (LGU) and government agencies to proactively release permits and ensure seamless implementation of energy projects.
"By expediting these processes, LGUs can contribute significantly to enhancing the investment climate and fostering economic growth and well-being of constituents in their areas," Lotilla added.