The province of Iloilo marked a milestone in its renewable energy transition with the groundbreaking of the 62-megawatt peak (MWp) Ajuy-1 Solar Power Project in Barangay Tipacla, Ajuy, Panay Island. Spearheaded by developer Jin Navitas Solaris, the PHP 2.37 billion project stands as Iloilo’s first major ground-mounted solar facility.
Covering 47.86 hectares, the plant will supply clean, reliable electricity to the Panay grid through the Sara–Panit 69 kV transmission line. It has completed its System Impact Study and was awarded under the Department of Energy’s Green Energy Auction Program 2 (GEA-2), with a green energy tariff rate of PHP 4.35 per kilowatt-hour.
Department of Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin, who led the ceremony, emphasized the project’s transformative role in Iloilo’s energy landscape.
“This groundbreaking initiative not only marks a significant step in reducing our carbon footprint but also empowers local communities by providing them with reliable and renewable energy resources,” she stated.
The Ajuy-1 project is closely aligned with the Iloilo Provincial Renewable Energy Plan (I-PREP), a long-term roadmap aimed at increasing the share of renewables, promoting energy self-sufficiency, and enhancing collaboration between government and private sector stakeholders. The project is also backed by the Iloilo Provincial Ordinance for Renewable Energy (I-PORE), a first-of-its-kind legislation that incentivizes renewable energy development and requires its integration into local development strategies.
On a national level, the project contributes to the Philippines’ broader renewable energy goals—35% of the power mix by 2030 and 50% by 2040. Locally, it is expected to enhance grid stability in Northern Iloilo and potentially reduce electricity costs for consumers.
Beyond energy benefits, the Ajuy-1 solar facility is projected to generate socio-economic value by increasing local government revenues, creating community development opportunities, and fostering capacity-building in clean energy technologies.
The development of Ajuy-1 underscores Iloilo’s commitment to sustainable growth, positioning the province as a leader in clean energy and a model for regional renewable integration.
