Aurora:The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) has announced the signing of a significant pact with Huge Energy Co., Ltd. and Dong-A Global for an PHP8.2 billion energy project aimed at ensuring a stable power supply and attracting more investments.

According to Philippines News Agency, this initiative involves the development of a 1,000-megawatt solar-powered project with a battery energy storage system (BESS) and a substation. The memorandum of understanding was signed by officials from APECO, Huge Energy Co., Ltd., and Dong-A Global, setting the stage for this ambitious renewable energy project.

APECO President and CEO Undersecretary Gil Taway IV highlighted the importance of clean and reliable energy for the Casiguran-located economic zone, emphasizing that renewable energy is a crucial part of APECO's development strategy. The project is expected to unfold over three to four years, with construction beginning in 2027 after the submission of necessary feasibility studies and regulatory documents.

The project's development will occur in three phases. The initial phase involves building a solar photovoltaic power generation facility, a BESS, and a power substation with an initial capacity of about 100 megawatts. The second phase will add 350 megawatts of generation capacity using solar and waste-to-energy technologies, while the third phase will add 550 megawatts.

Taway stated that APECO will handle the economic zone's development, site administration, and coordination with government agencies, while Huge Energy will manage the technical and financial aspects. He expressed optimism that the project will enable APECO to attract more industries, bolster digital infrastructure, support data centers and manufacturing activities, enhance logistics and infrastructure, and promote value-adding activities in agriculture and fisheries. Additionally, it aims to advance energy security, build local skills, and create employment opportunities in Aurora.