Prime Infra Launches 64MW Solar Power Plant in Tanauan

Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. (Prime Infra), through its wholly owned subsidiary Prime Solar Solutions Corp., inaugurated its 64-megawatt solar power plant in Tanauan, Batangas, on Friday.

The event was attended by Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Rowena Guevara, Prime Infra President and CEO Guillaume Lucci, Director Christian Gonzalez, Prime Solar Director Donato Almeda, President and CEO Atty. Cherry Mendoza, Batangas 3rd District Representative Cong. Ma. Theresa Collantes, Batangas Provincial Governor Hermilando “Dodo” Mandanas, Vice Governor Mark Leviste, and Tanauan City Mayor Sonny Collantes.

“The completion of this plant is a significant milestone for us. This plant, combined with the other plant in Maragondon, will be the first set of solar power plants operated by Prime Infra and its subsidiary, Prime Solar. It’s part of a broader portfolio strategy, alongside our other renewable projects, playing a crucial role in achieving our commitment to building better lives and resilient economies through socially relevant infrastructure,” said Lucci.

Prime Solar’s two plants in Tanauan, Batangas, and Maragondon, Cavite, will supply up to 128 megawatts of clean energy, powering approximately 84,000 households and displacing over 100,000 tons of coal annually. Prime Solar has a 50-megawatt, 20-year power supply agreement with Meralco, with the remaining output supplied to the grid.

“We are grateful to our offtaker, Meralco. We have a long-term contract to fulfill, and we look forward to connecting this plant to the grid as quickly as possible to distribute energy and ease grid pressure,” added Lucci.

The Tanauan Solar Power Plant, which broke ground in April 2023, employs advanced technology, including digital twin technology, drone verification of progress, optimized string sizing, and 24/7 quality assurance/quality control monitoring both at the factory and onsite.

Undersecretary Rowena Guevara, representing Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla, congratulated the team on the project’s inauguration. “Completing the construction in around 12 months demonstrates the efficiency and teamwork that brought this project to fruition. The Tanauan Solar Power Plant marks a significant step in our transition to a clean energy future, helping to achieve the national renewable energy program target of 35 percent in the generation mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040,” said Guevara.

The local government of Batangas expressed strong support for the project, highlighting its various benefits. “Beyond the environmental impact, this project has created numerous jobs and stimulated our local economy. It serves as a beacon of innovation, demonstrating that sustainable practices and economic growth can coexist. I hope this project sets a precedent for future renewable projects,” said Cong. Maitet Collantes.

Governor Mandanas emphasized the importance of the infrastructure project and pledged continued support. “What Prime Infra is doing, not only in Batangas but across various locations, is vital. As the province’s governor, I assure you that we will continue to support and promote your vision,” he said.

Mayor Collantes also highlighted the project’s contribution to Tanauan’s sustainability. “This power plant is a step towards a sustainable and resilient city. We will continue to pursue ambitious projects with the private sector, support innovative solutions, and engage our community in environmental preservation efforts for future generations,” he stated.