Bago city: The Bago Negros Energy Corp. (BNEC) has officially commenced the construction of a pioneering 150-megawatt (MW) wind power project in the Negros Island Region. This groundbreaking ceremony, held in Barangay Calumangan, marks the start of the first wind power project of its kind in the area, setting a significant milestone for renewable energy development in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, the project entails a substantial initial investment of PHP9.78 billion and involves the installation of 23 wind turbine generators (WTGs). The project aims to bolster the power supply in the Visayas grid and align with the national renewable energy roadmap. During the ceremony, Mayor Marina Javellana-Yao emphasized the significance of the project as a collaborative effort for sustainable development, involving the government, private sector, and local community.
The event was attended by notable figures such as Mayor Javellana-Yao, Vice Mayor Andrew Torres, and BNEC Vice President Passakorn Panyaratanakorn. Representatives from PowerChina Philippines Corp. and the Department of Energy (DOE) Renewable Energy Management Bureau were also present. Panyaratanakorn highlighted the importance of this project as BNEC's inaugural venture in the Philippines, expressing a strong commitment to its success.
The Bago City Wind Power Project is supported by Thailand-based Sermsang Power Corp. Public Co. Ltd., which recognizes the project as a significant addition to its portfolio. Assistant Director Ruby de Guzman of the DOE noted Bago City's positioning as an emerging renewable energy hub in Negros Occidental, thanks to its diverse renewable resources.
The construction phase of the 150-MW wind power project is projected to last approximately one year. The DOE has awarded a service contract area encompassing 5,265 hectares, designated for the wind power plant's core operational facilities, substation, access road, and additional support facilities. The project area spans seven barangays, with specific allocations for the WTGs across locations such as Barangay Napoles, Busay, Calumangan, Taloc, Sampinit, and Lag-asan.
