Meralco PowerGen Corporation Inaugurates 1373 MW Mterra Solar Phase 1 With 825 MW Battery Storage In The Philippines

Meralco PowerGen Corporation (MGEN), together with its partners, has inaugurated Phase 1 of the MTerra Solar project, marking a major milestone in the Philippines’ renewable energy journey. The project is expected to become one of the world’s largest integrated solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage system (BESS) facilities located on a single site. The inauguration highlights the country’s growing capability to develop large-scale clean energy infrastructure while supporting a more reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity system.

Speaking at the inauguration, Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. described the project as proof that the country is capable of delivering renewable energy projects of global significance. He said the successful completion of the first phase demonstrates the Philippines’ ability to turn ambitious clean energy plans into reality.

MGEN Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said the project represents a significant achievement for the nation. He noted that the integrated solar and battery storage facility is set to become the world’s largest of its kind on a single site and emphasized that it was made possible through the combined efforts of the government, private sector, local communities, and thousands of Filipino workers.

Phase 1 of MTerra Solar has energized 1,373 MW of solar PV capacity along with 825 MW of battery energy storage, equivalent to 3,300 MWh. Although the project currently has a maximum export capacity of 750 MW to the Luzon grid while grid-related works are being completed, all 741 battery units have already been fully energized. This enables the facility to store solar power generated during the day and supply electricity when demand is highest, improving grid stability and energy security.

Following the completion of required grid tests, the project is now ready to fulfill its 600 MW mid-merit Power Supply Agreement (PSA) with Meralco. By the end of June 2026, more than 2,000 MWdc of solar panels had already been installed under Phase 1. The project has also achieved an important safety milestone by recording over 30 million work hours without a lost-time injury.

MGEN President and CEO Emmanuel V. Rubio said the company’s goal is to ensure that the energy transition delivers not only cleaner electricity but also reliable and affordable power for Filipino consumers. He said MTerra Solar demonstrates how innovation, collaboration, and long-term planning can strengthen the country’s energy system while supporting future economic growth.

The project is also expected to reduce the Philippines’ dependence on imported fuels by adding significant domestic renewable energy capacity to the Luzon grid. As one of the lowest-cost mid-merit power sources in Meralco’s supply portfolio, the facility will help diversify electricity generation while supporting the country’s renewable energy targets of achieving 35% renewable energy by 2030 and 50% by 2040.

Actis Managing Director and Head of Energy Infrastructure Lucy Heintz said the project strengthens the country’s energy security by providing over 1,373 MW of domestic clean energy while giving industries and consumers greater visibility over future electricity costs. She added that the Philippines is demonstrating leadership in delivering large-scale renewable energy solutions.

Beyond electricity generation, MTerra Solar is creating economic and social benefits for local communities. According to MGEN Renewables and Terra Solar Philippines Inc. President and CEO Dennis B. Jordan, the company has already invested PHP 88.6 million in education, livelihood programs, public safety, and community development initiatives.

Since construction began, the project has benefited more than 973,500 individuals and 47 institutions. Local residents have received technical training for renewable energy construction and operations, with many securing jobs on the project. The company has also installed 260 solar-powered streetlights, established rent-free marketplace spaces for local entrepreneurs, trained 214 community traffic marshals, created 17 traffic marshal posts, donated a fire truck, and built a fire substation in Gapan City to improve emergency response.

MTerra Solar is also promoting sustainable land use through a partnership with Central Luzon State University to research agrivoltaics. The studies will examine how crops can be cultivated around and beneath solar panels, helping improve farmer livelihoods, strengthen food security, and encourage more sustainable agricultural practices alongside renewable energy development.