TACLOBAN CITY – The Northern Samar provincial government has welcomed the decision of Singapore-based Vena Energy’s local unit, Gemini Wind Energy Corp. (GWEC), to invest P20.2 billion to build a 304-megawatt (MW) wind farm in the province.
Jhon Allen Berbon, head of the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), said in a phone interview on Friday that the project marks a pivotal step towards the country’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development.
“This venture will not only provide clean energy but will also serve as a model for future renewable energy projects across the country,” Berbon said.
“With this, Northern Samar will position itself not only as the Green Energy Capital of Eastern Visayas but also of the Philippines.”
Vena Energy-GWEC has reaffirmed its commitment to develop the project in Northern Samar, according to the company’s filing with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Sept. 17.
Last year, the company announced that it is investing in the expansion of a 304-MW wind farm on the border of Northern Samar and Samar provinces.
The project is an extension of the ongoing PHP19-billion, 206-MW San Isidro Wind Project, a collaborative effort among Vena Energy, Vivant Energy, and Aboitiz Renewables.
The wind farm is located on the border that covers San Isidro, Northern Samar and Calbayog City, Samar, some 235 km. north of Tacloban City, the regional capital.
The expansion will introduce 38 wind turbine generators, each with an impressive capacity of 8 MW, complementing the 33 turbines that boast a capacity of 6.25 MW each round.
Initially, the target is to make the energy project operational starting Dec. 15, 2026.
“The project not only represents a robust investment in clean energy but also underscores our dedication to fostering economic growth and job creation in Northern Samar. It is projected to create thousands of jobs during construction and hundreds during operation, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy and empowering our communities,” Berbon said.
Vena Energy currently operates six renewable energy assets in the Philippines, collectively generating 330.80 MW of clean energy.
These are the 132.5-MW solar power plant in Cadiz, Negros Occidental; the 54-MW wind power facility in Pililla, Rizal; the 30.40-MW solar plant in Ormoc, Leyte; two solar power plants with capacities of 20.10 MW and 83.30 MW in Currimao, Ilocos Norte; and a 10.50-MW solar plant in Kibawe, Bukidnon.