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SN Aboitiz Power Group (SNAP) has commenced construction on the second phase of its Magat Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Ramon, Isabela. The 16-megawatt (MW) facility, co-located with the Magat hydroelectric power plant, will integrate with the existing 24-MW Magat BESS 1, bringing the total capacity to 40 MW upon completion.
Once fully operational, the Magat BESS will function as a unified system, delivering ancillary services like regulating and contingency reserves to strengthen grid stability. Magat BESS Phase 2 is part of SNAP’s broader expansion strategy, with additional battery storage projects planned in the coming months.
“Magat BESS Phase 2 is part of the second wave of BESS projects that SNAP will pursue this year, with additional BESS capacities set to be constructed in the coming months,” SNAP shared.
Meanwhile, Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Raphael Lotilla praised SNAP for its dedication to promoting clean energy solutions in support of the government’s transition to sustainable power.
In a video message, he stated, “We are not just building infrastructure; we are laying the foundation for a more sustainable and energy-secure future. The impact of this initiative extends beyond the present — it is a legacy that will benefit generations of Filipinos.”
(Also read: MGreen Launches 19-MW Solar Facility in Nueva Ecija)
SNAP’s strategic partnerships
SNAP is a partnership between Aboitiz Power Corp. and Norway-based Scatec, a global leader in renewable energy. Scatec develops, builds, and operates clean energy projects, with 4.6 gigawatts (GW) in operation and under construction worldwide, driven by its mission to expand sustainable power access.
In his address, Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Christian Halaas Lyster
highlighted the crucial role of innovation and advanced technology in driving the shift to renewable energy and sustainable development.
“Norway has years of expertise in renewable energy and we are committed to being part of the solution on a national, regional, and global level towards a green energy transition,” he said.
SNAP also finalized an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract with GEDI China Energy, a subsidiary of China Energy Engineering Group, for a 40-MW BESS at the Binga hydro plant in Itogon, Benguet. Along with the Magat BESS Phase 2, this initiative advances SNAP’s efforts to enhance its storage capacity.
(Also read: Isabela to Host 33.8-MW Solar Project)
Commitment to renewable energy
SNAP President and CEO Joseph Yu emphasized that these projects demonstrate the company’s dedication to advancing sustainable and innovative energy solutions.
“With the additional 56 MW of BESS projects across our plants and the launch of our integrated remote operations center, we are not only increasing the energy supply but also enhancing energy security and grid stability, in line with our long-term sustainability goals,” Yu said.
SNAP also introduced its Integrated Remote Operations Center (iROC) at the Magat hydropower complex. This facility enhances efficiency by enabling real-time, centralized monitoring and control of its plants in Isabela and Benguet. The iROC improves operational coordination, optimizes performance, and strengthens SNAP’s digital transformation initiatives.
Construction is scheduled to start in early 2025, with operations expected to commence in 2026. The Magat BESS Phase 2 will be funded by the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and China Banking Corporation, while BPI and BDO Unibank will finance the Binga BESS project.
Sources:
https://www.philstar.com/business/2025/02/22/2423195/snap-breaks-ground-magat-bess-expansion
https://tribune.net.ph/2025/02/21/aboitiz-expands-battery-storage-w-magat-binga-projects