Northern samar: The Northern Samar provincial government has welcomed the decision of Singapore-based Vena Energy's local unit, Gemini Wind Energy Corp. (GWEC), to invest PHP20.2 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), emphasized that the project marks a pivotal step towards the country's commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development.
According to Philippines News Agency, Vena Energy-GWEC has reaffirmed its commitment to develop the project in Northern Samar, based on the company's filing with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on September 17. Last year, the company announced plans to expand a 304-MW wind farm on the border of Northern Samar and Samar provinces. This 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 strategically located on the border that covers San Isidro, Northern Samar, and Calbayog City, Samar, approximately 235 kilometers north of Tacloban City, the regional capital. The expansion will introduce 38 wind turbine generators, each with a capacity of 8 MW, complementing the existing 33 turbines that have a capacity of 6.25 MW each. The project aims to become operational by December 15, 2026.
Berbon highlighted that the project represents a significant investment in clean energy while also fostering economic growth and job creation in Northern Samar. The initiative is projected to create thousands of jobs during construction and hundreds during operation, providing a boost to the local economy and empowering communities.
Vena Energy currently operates six renewable energy assets in the Philippines, which collectively generate 330.80 MW of clean energy. These include 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.
