Table of Contents
Negros Occidental is set to strengthen its role as a renewable energy hub as Basic Energy Corporation (BEC) moves forward with a ₱1.9-billion solar power development in Cadiz City. The project, which will generate 43.41 megawatts (MW) of alternating current, is expected to enhance grid reliability and support growing electricity demand in the Visayas.
The Cadiz 1 Solar Power Project is among the ventures awarded under the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Green Energy Auction 4 (GEA-4), which seeks to expand renewable capacity nationwide. BEC secured a Certificate of Award from the DOE, granting it the authority to complete remaining development agreements and start site preparations.
Additional Power By Year’s End
Once operational, the solar plant will deliver electricity to the Visayas grid by December 2026, providing additional power supply to a region that frequently experiences tight reserves and fluctuating demand from industrial and commercial users.
“The company is mindful of the project’s delivery commitment and is managing the development work accordingly,” said BEC Chief Executive Officer Oscar L. de Venecia Jr. “Construction will only commence after the remaining pre-development requirements are completed.”
Pre-Development and Grid Integration
Basic Energy is now working with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to conduct a system impact study, ensuring safe and efficient integration of the facility into the existing transmission network. The firm is also securing local permits and finalizing engineering and procurement activities ahead of construction.
The Cadiz project marks a continuation of Negros’ renewable energy momentum, following the province’s emergence as a solar investment hotspot over the past decade. Once completed, it will reinforce the island’s contribution to the Visayas’ clean power supply and help stabilize the grid amid rising energy consumption.
Clean Energy Shift
Historically focused on oil and gas exploration, Basic Energy is now pursuing a 1,000-megawatt renewable energy portfolio, which is comprised of half solar and half wind, by 2030. The company has set aside up to ₱300 million for pre-development funding and recently partnered with Japan-based Renova Inc. to build a ₱5-billion wind farm in Batangas.
The shift aligns with the government’s target of raising the share of renewables in the national power mix to 35 percent by 2030, from the current 22 percent. The DOE’s Green Energy Auction Program provides successful bidders with a guaranteed market for their generated capacity, encouraging investment in clean energy development.
Strengthening Energy Security in the Visayas
Basic Energy’s expansion in Negros is crucial, as the Visayas grid continues to face intermittent supply challenges. The additional solar capacity from the Cadiz 1 project is expected to improve reliability, reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports, and promote regional energy security.
At the Philippine Stock Exchange, shares of Basic Energy rose 8.06% on the day of the announcement, closing at ₱0.134 each.
If completed as scheduled, the Cadiz 1 Solar Power Project will not only boost the Visayas’ renewable portfolio but also affirm Negros Occidental’s growing reputation as a leader in the country’s clean energy transition.
Source:
https://mb.com.ph/2026/01/15/basic-energy-advances-43-mw-solar-project-toward-2026-launch