EDC Launches P7B Geothermal Plant to Boost Philippines' Green Energy
Energy Development Corp. inaugurates P7-billion Tanawon Geothermal Power Plant in Bicol, boosting Philippines' renewable energy capacity and reinforcing its position as a global leader in geothermal power generation.
EDC's newly inaugurated Tanawon Geothermal Power Plant in Sorsogon City, Bicol region
SORSOGON City, Bicol -- In a significant boost to the Philippines' renewable energy capacity, Energy Development Corp. (EDC) has inaugurated its P7-billion Tanawon Geothermal Power Plant, marking a crucial milestone in the country's journey toward energy independence and sustainability.
Powering a Sustainable Future
The 22-megawatt flash geothermal facility, capable of generating 159,000 megawatt-hours annually, represents a major advancement in the nation's power infrastructure development. The plant's operation is expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 38,312 tons per year while strengthening the country's baseload capacity.
"Tanawon's inauguration is not only a proud achievement for First Gen and EDC, but also a win for the country's energy security and climate resilience journey," stated EDC President and Chief Operating Officer Jerome H. Cainglet during Friday's ceremony.
Strategic Development and Government Support
The project, completed in 27 months within the Bacon-Manito geothermal facility, demonstrates the kind of strategic government-backed initiatives crucial for national development. The Department of Energy's designation of Tanawon as an Energy Project of National Significance in 2020 underscores its importance to the country's energy security.
Ambitious Expansion Plans
EDC's growth trajectory includes several key projects:
- 28MW Mahanagdong Binary Plant in Leyte
- Three battery energy storage systems totaling 40MWh
- 5.6MW Bago Binary in Negros Occidental (2026 completion)
This expansion aligns with the country's push toward responsible corporate development and environmental sustainability. EDC currently operates nearly 1,400 MW of renewable energy, contributing 17 percent of the nation's total capacity.
Global Leadership in Geothermal Energy
With over 1,000 MW of geothermal capacity representing 56 percent of the national total, EDC's operations have helped position the Philippines as the world's third-largest geothermal producer, showcasing the country's commitment to sustainable energy development.
Manny Pacquiao
Independent Filipino journalist covering democracy, civil rights, and government accountability across Southeast Asia.