SMC Global Light and Power Corp. (SGLPC) is proposing to develop a 135-megawatt peak solar project in Quezon province to bolster the Luzon grid and support the national transition toward sustainable energy.
The project, known as Pagbilao 1, is located in Barangay Ibabang Polo and involves the installation of 201,493 photovoltaic panels across 137.78 hectares.
SGLPC, a subsidiary of San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp., is applying for an environmental compliance certificate with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Environmental Management Bureau in Region 4A.
SGLPC plans to use 720-watt peak high-power modules from Trina Solar. The company said the technology features a standard test condition efficiency of about 23.2 percent, which maximizes energy generation per unit area.
The system will also utilize 344 Huawei string inverters. SGLPC said these components offer an efficiency of up to 98.5 percent and advanced grid support functionalities.
“This careful selection of proven, high-quality equipment minimizes technical risks and supports the project’s long-term operational and financial performance,” SGLPC said in its filing.
The company said the project would use use existing access roads and would not encroach upon protected areas, Ramsar sites (wetlands) or cultural heritage properties.
The development aligns with the Department of Energy Philippine Energy Plan 2020-2040, which seeks to attain inclusive economic growth through secure and sustainable energy strategies.
“The solar project would contribute to the supply of energy in Luzon in order to cater to the demand of ongoing developments, growing population and industrialization,” the company said.
SGLPC cited socio-economic benefits including local job creation and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. The company noted the facility is expected to have minimal operational noise and waste generation compared to conventional power plants.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2027, with pre-commissioning expected in the fourth quarter of 2028. SGLPC anticipates full commercial operations will start in the second quarter of 2029.
