USD33M solar power facility to rise in New Clark City
Advancing New Clark Cityβs goal of fostering sustainable development, Sindicatum C-Solar Power Inc. (SCSPI), a subsidiary of Singapore-based renewable energy developer GurΔ«n Energy Pte Ltd, has started the construction of a USD33 million solar photovoltaic power plant within the rising metropolis, with completion targeted by next year.
On 11 April 2025, SCSPI and GurΔ«n Energy, joined by the Department of Energy (DOE), Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and Union Bank of the Philippines, broke ground for the Capas Solar Power Project on a 40-hectare lot within New Clark City, marking the official start of the facilityβs construction.
β[T]he Philippines has one of the most exciting opportunities for renewable energy in the world. Here in Capas, Tarlac, with the support of the BCDA, the local government, and the stakeholders in our community, we wanted to show our commitment to our workplans by having this groundbreaking [ceremony],β said Jose Rafael R. Mendoza, president of SCSPI and country manager of GurΔ«n Energy.
βPutting together a solar facility requires work not only from the developer, but cooperation with multiple stakeholders. It truly is a combination of multiple talents. And weβre very pleased to share this moment with you so that we continue to deliver a lasting impact for the progress of the Philippines,β he added.
With a total investment commitment of USD33 million, the facility will have a total capacity of 38.81 megawatts peak (31.25 megawatts alternating current) upon its completion, which is targeted by January 2026. The power plant will be connected to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippinesβ substation in Concepcion, Tarlac via a 69-kilovolt transmission line.
The project seeks to boost the renewable sectorβs share in the Philippinesβ total energy mix, and to address the power requirements of locators and residents in New Clark City and the Tarlac province.
βThis proposed solar project would definitely add to our target of achieving 35% of renewable energy share in the power generation mix by 2030β¦With this renewable energy plant, which will be operational by next year, it will add significant energy generation, especially to the Luzon grid,β said Ruby B. de Guzman, assistant director of DOEβs Renewable Energy Management Bureau.
Erwin Kenneth R. Peralta, vice president for Investment Promotions and Marketing of the BCDA, added: βThis solar power project will not only generate the energy for New Clark City, but will also bring skills, employment and economic prosperity to the local community, proving that progress can go hand in hand with innovation and sustainability.β
On 10 September 2015, the BCDA and SCSPI entered into an agreement for the 25-year lease of the property in New Clark City for the development of the solar photovoltaic power plant. In June 2023, SCSPI informed the BCDA of changes in its ownership structure after GurΔ«n Energy acquired its holding company, Capas Investment Pte. Ltd from Sindicatum Renewable Energy Company Pte. Ltd.,
GurΔ«n Energy, backed by New Zealand-based Infratil Ltd., is a renewable energy provider with investments in several wind and solar energy projects across Asia, including the Philippines.
The companyβs Capas Solar Power Project is seen to build up the renewable energy market in the Central Luzon, contributing to the national governmentβs goal of increasing renewable energyβs share in the countryβs energy generation mix to 30% by year 2030 and 50% by 2040.
It is also aligned with the United Nationsβ Sustainable Development Goal No. 7, which is ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
