THE Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) approved the development of a new solar power plant in Binalonan with Citicore Solar Pangasinan 2 Inc. as proponent.

The resolution endorsed by the provincial board during its regular session on November 18, approved 100 hectares or one square kilometer of agricultural land to be converted into commercial/industrial use to serve as a site for the 113.123 MWp (megawatt peak) solar facility.

The project is supported by barangays and the Binalonan Municipal Council.

In August 2023, Citicore was granted a Solar Energy Operating Contract by the Department of Energy, giving the company exclusive rights to develop solar energy in the area.

The plant, to be built in two phases, will have a total capacity of 240 MW. Phase 1 (168 MW) is slated for completion in 2025, followed by Phase 2 (72 MW). Once fully operational, the plant will generate 326 GWh of electricity annually, powering approximately 136,000 households.

The initiative aligns with the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 and will boost Pangasinan’s energy sustainability and economic growth.

The resolution, jointly authored by 5th District Board Members Rosary Gracia Perez-Tababa and Nicholi Jan Louie Sison, underscores the significant socio-economic and environmental benefits to Pangasinan. “The establishment of an alternative source of power is a welcome development in the Province of Pangasinan, as it will help accelerate the energy program in the area,” the resolution states. (Eva Visperas)

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