EDC plans capacity increase via modernization of Palinpinon geothermal power plant in Philippines
EDC has announced plans to modernize the Palinpinon-1 geothermal power plant in Negros Oriental, Philippines to add 13.5 MW installed capacity.
Energy Development Corporation (EDC), the geothermal arm of First Gen Corp. (First Gen) is undertaking a modernization project of the Palinpinon-1 geothermal power plant in Valencia, Negros Oriental in the Philippines that will increase its installed capacity from the current 112.5 MW to 126 MW.
The modernization project will involve the replacement of the three current 37.5-MW turbine generator units with corresponding 42-MW units. This will add 13.5 MW to the installed capacity of the power plant without the need for additional steam extraction. The project will also extend the operating life of the plant, which has been supplying power to the grid for more than four decades.
According to First Gen and EDC officials speaking at the Net Zero Carbon Alliance press conference, work on the upgrade of the Palinpinon power plant will start later this year. EDC President and CEO Jerome Cainglet added that the upgrade will be implemented in phases, with completion targeted by the end of 2027.
“By upgrading our existing infrastructure to generate more electricity without needing additional steam extraction, we are maximizing our natural resources while helping accelerate the Philippines’ transition toward a decarbonized energy future,” concluded Noel Tan, head of the Southern Negros Geothermal Project (SNGP).
EDC had also recently announced plans of decommissioning the aging 125-MW Upper Mahiao geothermal power plant, part of the Leyte geothermal site. The company has earmarked an investment of about PHP 70 billion (approx. USD 1.12 billion) to redevelop the site and build a new power plant with an estimated capacity of 200 to 400 MW.
The plans of EDC to invest in the redevelopment of power plant facilities is a testament to the longevity and sustainability of geothermal resources. It validates that geothermal resources can sustain decades of energy extraction longer than the useful life of commercial power generation facilities and equipment. Reinvesting in more modern equipment also presents a commercially viable case for operators despite the substantial capital needed, as it can provide higher output and efficiency.
Source: Philippine News Agency