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Energy firm ACEN Corporation has energized Luzon’s grid with the commercial launch of its 133-megawatt solar farm in Cagayan—the province’s first renewable energy project. The Cagayan North Solar facility, which began supplying power last year, is expected to produce around 188 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy annually, underscoring ACEN’s growing role in the country’s green energy shift.
ACEN President and CEO Eric Francia said the solar facility would help meet the country’s rising electricity demand. “This project plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s energy supply through reliable and sustainable generation,” he noted.
(Also read: Basic Energy Secures DOE Approval for Bolinao Solar Project)
Project’s key features
The 155-hectare solar farm, located in the municipality of Lal-lo, was developed in partnership with CleanTech Renewable Energy 4 Corp. It is designed to power around 45,000 homes annually while offsetting approximately 128,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. The facility also stands as Cagayan’s first utility-scale solar installation.
CleanTech President and CEO Salvador Antonio Castro Jr. highlighted the broader impact of the Cagayan North Solar power plant, describing it as a key step toward a more resilient and sustainable energy system.
“The Cagayan North Solar power plant is more than just an energy source; it’s a symbol of progress. By delivering clean, renewable electricity to the grid, it strengthens the Philippines’ energy resilience while reducing carbon emissions,” he explained. “For host communities, it means new jobs, better infrastructure, and a sustainable future. With every ray of sunlight captured, we illuminate lives and power a nation towards a greener tomorrow.”
(Also read: Ilocos Norte Pioneers Solar Rooftop Initiative in Government Facilities)
Positive impacts
The construction of the Cagayan North Solar project generated around 1,000 green jobs, providing a significant boost to local employment and economic activity.
In partnership with local government units, ACEN and CleanTech are also investing in community development, including the construction of Bical National High School, which will serve up to 200 students and was built with a P14-million allocation.
Departing Lal‑lo Mayor Florante Pascual called the Cagayan North Solar project a cornerstone of the municipality’s sustainability agenda. “It reduces reliance on non-renewable energy, helping the municipality transition to a cleaner and greener future,” he remarked. “The project also fosters inclusive development by channeling benefits directly to host communities.”
About the developers
ACEN holds a majority stake in the Cagayan North Solar project, owning 60%, while CleanTech Renewable Energy 4 Corp. owns the remaining 40%.
CleanTech serves as an independent power producer, specializing in the expansion, ownership, and oversight of clean energy ventures in various Southeast Asian countries.
Meanwhile, ACEN, the listed energy arm of the Ayala Group, has built a renewables portfolio approaching 7 gigawatts, spanning active facilities, ongoing builds, and approved future developments.
While most of its activity is based in the Philippines, ACEN is also expanding its presence overseas through investments in key markets, including Vietnam, Laos, Australia, Indonesia, India, and the United States.
Sources:
https://www.philstar.com/business/2025/06/05/2448225/acen-sees-bright-prospects-cagayan-solar-farm
https://tribune.net.ph/2025/06/07/acen-grows-footprint-with-cagayan-solar-bid
https://mb.com.ph/2025/06/04/acen-powers-up-luzon-grid-with-first-cagayan-solar-plant