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The Benguet Electric Cooperative (Beneco) is ramping up efforts to expand renewable energy projects across Benguet, aligning with the national push for cleaner, more sustainable power for Filipino homes.
Among the upcoming green initiatives, Beneco is set to develop an 8 to 10-megawatt (MW) minihydro power plant in Adaway, Kabayan. General Manager Engr. Melchor S. Licoben said the project is now in motion following the issuance of a certificate of authority allowing the cooperative to begin initial works.
Additionally, Beneco is revisiting plans to develop its 7-hectare property in Tabaan Norte, Tuba, initially eyed for a 1-MW solar farm. The project stalled due to funding setbacks, but Licoben said the cooperative is exploring alternative options to revive the solar initiative or repurpose the land for income-generating ventures that will benefit its member-consumer-owners.
Licoben also shared that Beneco is eyeing several promising locations in Tuba, Kabayan, Kibungan, and Bakun for future minihydro projects. With these potential sites under consideration, the cooperative sees strong prospects for a major boost in its renewable energy output in the coming years.
(Also read: 206 More Sitios in Baguio, Benguet Set for Electrification by 2027)
3MW hydroelectric plant’s commercial operation
Last November 2024, Beneco officially launched the commercial operations of its 3.4-megawatt hydroelectric power plant in Man-asok, Buguias, in Benguet, marking its first venture into power generation as a distribution utility.
“Man-asok, having been awarded its COC (Certificate of Compliance), is a big leap in attaining Beneco’s vision in going renewable,” stated Licoben. “This final approval from the DOE (Department of Energy) means that the electricity produced by the Man-asok mini-hydro (power plant) will be guaranteed to be paid by the government’s Feed in Tariff Allocation (FIT-ALL) rate.”
After securing the COC, Beneco could scale up its renewable energy efforts. Licoben noted that the certification unlocks opportunities to pursue larger power generation projects that could lower electricity costs for consumers.
Legal Officer Atty. Delmar Bacoco added that the COC grants the cooperative key incentives—including tax breaks, income tax holidays, and duty-free importation of renewable energy equipment—that will help drive these developments forward.
Despite the push for more renewable energy, Beneco remains grounded in community partnerships, particularly with indigenous peoples’ organizations. Licoben said these collaborations will be central to developing hydro, solar, wind, and geothermal projects aimed at providing lasting value to consumers.
Last March, Beneco revealed plans that it had filed applications with the DOE for five additional clean power projects proposed in Kabayan, Benguet.
(Also read: Quirino’s First Solar Pump Revives 20+ Hectares)
Sources:
https://baguioheraldexpressonline.com/beneco-ready-to-expand-renewable-energy-sources-in-benguet/
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1240371
https://pia.gov.ph/beneco-moves-to-assure-stable-power-supply-for-member-consumers