Citicore Energizes 69 MWp Solar Power Plant in Negros Occidental to Support Visayas Grid

Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation (CREC) has successfully energized the 69 MWp Citicore Solar Negros Occidental 2 Solar Power Plant, strengthening power supply in the Visayas grid ahead of the peak summer season.

The energization represents a key milestone in the company’s “5GW in 5 years” roadmap, reinforcing its position in the Philippines’ renewable energy sector and its commitment to advancing the country’s clean energy transition.

According to CREC President and CEO Oliver Tan, the early delivery of the project highlights the company’s capability to provide dependable capacity during periods of high demand. He noted that the facility is among the largest solar plants developed by CREC in the Visayas region, reflecting the company’s strategic expansion beyond Luzon and its focus on enhancing regional energy security.

Located across 69 hectares in Barangay Eustaquio Lopez, Silay City, Negros Occidental, the project has been designed with scalability in mind, with provisions for future expansion up to 100 MWp. The facility builds on CREC’s existing presence in the province, complementing the operational 25 MWp CS Negros Occidental 1 solar plant.

The project is part of the Department of Energy’s Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP) Round 2 and is expected to supply clean and reliable electricity to the Visayas grid. With this development, CREC has energized six out of its twelve awarded GEAP-2 projects, with additional plants scheduled for commissioning in the coming months.

In a recent visit, Department of Energy Secretary Sharon Garin inspected the project alongside CREC leadership and commended the company for its timely execution and continued contribution to national energy transition goals.

In addition to power generation, CREC plans to expand its AgroSolar initiative at the site, utilizing land beneath solar panels for cultivating high-value crops. The approach aims to support agricultural productivity, enhance food security, and provide livelihood opportunities for local farming communities.

The project underscores the growing integration of renewable energy infrastructure with sustainable land use practices, positioning Negros Occidental as both an agricultural hub and a key contributor to the country’s renewable energy expansion.