Green Core Geothermal Inc. (GCGI), a subsidiary of Energy Development Corp. (EDC), is planning a P3-billion upgrade of its Palinpinon 1 Geothermal Power Plant in Valencia, Negros Oriental. The project aims to increase the plant’s generating capacity from 112.5 megawatts (MW) to 126 MW by replacing its three existing 37.5-MW turbine generators with more efficient 42-MW units.
In its filing with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), GCGI said the upgrade will require a new environmental compliance certificate. The initiative forms part of EDC’s continued efforts to enhance renewable energy production under the Lopez-led First Gen Corp. umbrella.
“This upgrade is prompted by the fact that two of the turbine rotors are approaching the end of their asset life within two to three years,” the company stated.
(Also read: Northern Samar Pioneers Investor-Friendly “Green Lane” Policy)
Upgrading efficiency
However, the company clarified that the planned upgrade would not require additional land, modifications to process technology, or increased steam consumption. GCGI also assured that emissions and condensate generation would remain unchanged, as the improved efficiency of the new turbines would balance out the higher output.
The allocated investment will fund various components of the project, including planning and design, consultant coordination, technical assessments, and the purchase and installation of new turbine systems.
GCGI aims to complete all turbine upgrades by the third quarter of 2028, with the enhanced facility expected to begin commercial operations within the same period.
As part of the planned expansion of the Palinpinon geothermal plant, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will hold a public scoping session on July 23 in Negros Oriental. The forum, an early step in the environmental review process, will brief stakeholders on the project and help shape the scope of assessment.
GCGI said the expansion supports the country’s Energy Reform Agenda by harnessing geothermal power, a key renewable energy source. The project is expected to add reliable baseload capacity to the Visayas grid, helping meet future demand while delivering stable and affordable electricity to fuel national growth.
(Also read: DENR OKs Mine Expansion in Antique)
Project background
Originally developed by the National Power Corp. and supplying clean energy since 1983, the Palinpinon 1 geothermal facility is now operated by GCGI. EDC assumed control of the plant in 2009 as part of efforts under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) to transfer power generation assets to private ownership.
In addition to managing the Palinpinon facility, GCGI also operates the 123-megawatt Tongonan 1 geothermal power plant located in Leyte.
EDC contributes around 20% of the country’s renewable energy production, with a total installed capacity of approximately 1,480.19 MW. Of that, approximately 1,200 MW comes from its 13 geothermal plants, representing around 60% of geothermal capacity across the country.
Sources: