The Department of Energy (DOE) has reaffirmed the Atimonan Energy Power Plant project as a “committed project” after confirming it falls outside the scope of the 2020 Coal Moratorium Policy.
Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN) said it is proceeding with the development of Atimonan One Energy Inc.’s 1,200-megawatt (MW) ultra-supercritical pulverized coal-fired power plant.
The plant is part of MGEN’s thermal business portfolio and aims to provide cost-effective, reliable power to meet Luzon’s growing energy demands. With the DOE’s latest reaffirmation of the project’s non-coverage, Atimonan One Energy Inc. can now process further permits through the Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS).
The Atimonan Energy power plant will use High Efficiency, Low Emission (HELE) technology, which maximizes energy production and minimizes fuel consumption through high temperatures and pressures. The technology, widely used globally and in countries like South Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand and China, is crucial for achieving lower carbon emissions from thermal plants.
Once completed, the thermal plant will provide a sufficient supply of reliable and affordable baseload energy for the Philippines.
It is projected to generate enough power for at least 5 million households (based on an average monthly consumption of 150 kWh) or the equivalent energy needs of approximately 1,000 hospitals.
The new power source will account for about 7 percent of Luzon’s total energy demand, bolstering the country’s energy security and ensuring a reliable future power supply. The plant is also expected to lower electricity costs by roughly 12 billion Philippine pesos ($204 million) annually.
The Atimonan Energy Power Plant is set to deliver significant benefits to the local community, with an estimated annual economic contribution exceeding 1 billion pesos.
This includes revenue from real property taxes and funding for various community development initiatives. During construction, the project is expected to create up to 6,000 local jobs, with an additional 300 permanent positions once operational.
Beyond full compliance with all applicable Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) environmental laws, rules, and regulations, MGEN will also supply up to 5 million tree seedlings by 2035 for government sequestration efforts.
MGEN’s pursuit of the Atimonan Energy project builds on its track record of sustainable energy development. The company is constructing the world’s largest integrated solar and battery energy storage facility through the MTerra Solar project, demonstrating its commitment to accelerating renewable energy growth.
MGEN is also investing in liquefied natural gas (LNG) through its domestic and international ventures, recognizing its role as a critical transition fuel that complements renewables and ensures grid stability. These strategic initiatives underscore MGEN’s balanced and forward-looking approach to powering the country’s development.
“We welcome the DOE’s reaffirmation of the Atimonan Energy project’s non-coverage from the coal moratorium policy,” MGEN president and chief executive Emmanuel Rubio said.
“As MGEN plays a key role in ensuring the country’s energy security and leading the energy transition, our investment in Atimonan will help address today’s needs while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. We will employ advanced and efficient technologies to ensure our operations support economic and societal development – all while adhering to the company’s commitment to sustainability,” said Rubio.
