DOE breaks ground on Ajuy solar plant to boost clean energy in Iloilo

Construction of a 62-megawatt peak (MWp) solar power facility has officially begun in the town of Ajuy, marking a significant step toward expanding renewable energy capacity on Panay Island.

The project, developed by Jin Navitas Solaris, is situated on a nearly 48-hectare site in Barangay Tipacla. Once operational, the plant is expected to bolster energy supply in northern Iloilo and reduce dependence on fossil fuel sources.

The solar facility is being implemented under the Department of Energy’s Green Energy Auction Program 2 (GEA-2), which aims to accelerate the development of renewable energy across the country. It has secured a green energy tariff of PHP4.35 per kilowatt-hour and will be connected to the Panay grid via the Sara–Panit 69-kV transmission line. A system impact study for the connection has already been completed.

“This groundbreaking initiative not only marks a significant step in reducing our carbon footprint but also empowers local communities by providing them with reliable and renewable energy resources,” Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said during the event.

With a total investment of PHP2.37 billion, the Ajuy-1 Solar Power Project is Iloilo’s first large-scale ground-mounted solar installation. It is projected to contribute to the national government’s target of increasing the share of renewables to 35 percent of the energy mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.

Garin described the project as a demonstration of the government’s continued commitment to developing sustainable energy infrastructure while enhancing regional grid stability. The facility is also expected to bring economic benefits to local communities during both construction and operation.

The DOE has emphasized the role of such projects in meeting national energy security and climate goals, with the renewable energy pipeline growing steadily under various auction and incentive schemes.