MTerra Solar, the project company for a landmark solar initiative in the Philippines, has awarded a key Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract for Phase 2 of its development to China Energy Engineering Group (Energy China). This next stage will see the construction of a 600 MW solar power plant and a 1,000 MWh battery energy storage system in Nueva Ecija.
The project is being developed by SP New Energy Corp. (SPNEC), which is now majority-controlled by Meralco’s MGen Renewable Energy Inc. (MGreen), positioning this initiative as a critical component of the country’s energy transition.
Phase 2 to Boost Solar and Energy Storage Capacity in the Philippines solar contract
The second phase of the MTerra project will significantly expand the site’s capacity with its 600 MW solar farm and a 1,000 MWh energy storage system. This new infrastructure will be integrated with the 400 MW solar plant and 1,000 MWh battery system developed by Energy China during Phase 1.
While this phase is a major step, it is part of a much larger vision. The total P200-billion MTerra project aims to develop a staggering 3,500 MW of solar generation capacity and 4,500 MWh of battery storage, making it one of the largest projects of its kind in the world. The sheer scale involves sourcing and installing millions of individual solar panels, each created through a detailed manufacturing process. Once operational, the plant will dispatch its generated power through a supply agreement with Meralco, the Philippines’ largest electricity utility.
Energy China Expands Global Renewable Energy Projects with Philippines solar contract
The selection of Energy China for this large-scale EPC contract highlights the company’s growing global expertise. Energy China has been actively securing and developing renewable energy projects worldwide, demonstrating its capabilities in delivering complex energy infrastructure. Recently, the company won contracts for a 200 MW solar project in Cambodia and a 300 MW solar project in Saudi Arabia, aligning with its strategy to expand its footprint in the global renewable energy market.
In addition to its international projects, Energy China is developing a 1,000 MW solar plant in Dongfang City, Hainan Province, China, which will also feature a 1,000 MWh energy storage system. The company is also focusing on developing renewable energy projects in Central and South America, with plans to establish a renewable energy base in the region. Energy China’s global portfolio now includes over 100 projects, with a combined capacity of 20,000 MW, complemented by its significant presence in China’s domestic wind power sector.
Philippines’ Renewable Energy Goals and the Philippines solar contract
The Philippines has been proactive in setting ambitious targets to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. The nation aims to increase the share of renewable sources in its energy mix to 50 percent by 2040. Currently, renewables—including solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power—account for approximately 30 percent of the country’s total energy capacity.
The MTerra Solar project is a cornerstone initiative expected to play a crucial role in achieving these national targets. Its immense scale showcases the country’s commitment to clean energy and is attracting significant international investment and partnership, further accelerating the growth of the renewable sector. Understanding the basics of solar panel manufacturing is key to appreciating the industrial might required to make such national goals a reality.
To learn more about the fundamentals of solar technology and its production, you can explore our free e-course.
