NUEVA ECIJA, Philippines—A groundbreaking ceremony for the P200-billion solar and battery storage project in Nueva Ecija, envisioned to be the largest of its kind globally, was led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday. The Terra Solar project, developed by Solar Philippines Power Project Holdings, is set to revolutionize the country’s renewable energy landscape, bolstering the Luzon grid’s power supply while setting a benchmark for sustainable energy worldwide.

The facility will occupy approximately 2,500 hectares and is projected to generate 2,000 megawatts (MW) of solar energy and store up to 4,500 megawatt-hours (MWh) in its cutting-edge battery systems. This capacity is enough to provide power to millions of households across Luzon, helping address the region’s energy needs and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

During the ceremony, President Marcos emphasized the importance of renewable energy in the Philippines’ development strategy. “The Terra Solar project is a monumental step towards achieving energy security while fulfilling our commitments to sustainability and environmental protection,” he said. The president also highlighted that the project aligns with the administration’s renewable energy targets under the Philippine Energy Plan.

The project has garnered significant support from the private sector. Business magnates Manny V. Pangilinan and Lance Gokongwei were present at the event, expressing optimism about the venture’s potential to transform the energy industry. Pangilinan described the project as a “game-changer” in achieving a greener and more resilient energy system for the Philippines.

Aside from being a renewable energy milestone, the solar farm is expected to bring economic benefits to Nueva Ecija and surrounding regions. It will generate thousands of jobs during construction and create long-term opportunities for local communities through ancillary industries and economic activities.

Solar Philippines founder Leandro Leviste said the project is designed to demonstrate that large-scale renewable energy systems are feasible in the Philippines. “This facility will not only power homes but also pave the way for more ambitious clean energy projects in the future,” he added.

The Terra Solar project is part of the government’s push to increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s power mix. With the Department of Energy aiming for renewables to account for 50% of the energy mix by 2040, initiatives like the Nueva Ecija solar facility will play a crucial role in meeting these goals.

Industry analysts have lauded the project as a significant advancement in the global transition to clean energy. When operational, the facility is expected to surpass existing solar farms worldwide in size and output, placing the Philippines at the forefront of renewable energy innovation.

The Terra Solar project is slated to be completed in phases, with the first phase expected to be operational by 2025. Once fully operational, it will not only strengthen the Philippines’ energy infrastructure but also contribute to global efforts in combating climate change.

The groundbreaking in Nueva Ecija underscores the critical role of public-private partnerships in achieving sustainable development, signaling a brighter, greener future for the Philippines and the world.