Gov’t gets 13 bids for geothermal, hydro projects

By: Ronnel W. Domingo - 05:10 AM February 18, 2021
https://business.inquirer.net/317940/govt-gets-13-bids-for-geothermal-hydro-projects

The Department of Energy (DOE) on Wednesday touted 13 applications received for geothermal and hydro service contracts covering 11 out of 22 areas that the DOE made available to developers of renewable energy (RE) projects.

This was part of the third Open and Competitive Selection Process (OCSP3) or bidding for such contracts. The evaluation of valid applications is expected to be completed on March 2 and the awarding of contracts—if any—is expected on April 14.

This was also the first bidding done since 100-percent foreign participation in geoethermal projects was allowed.

“The DOE has been promoting RE development to both local and foreign investors,” Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said in a statement. “This will accelerate our energy transition toward sustainable development.”

Out of the five so-called predetermined areas (PDAs) suitable for geothermal developments and available for contracting, three PDAs attracted five applications.

Energy Development Corp. and Philippine Geothermal Production Co. (PGPC) are vying for a contract to develop the Daklan area in Benguet province, where there is potential for a 27-megawatt (MW) project.

PGPC also applied for a contract related to a possible 30-MW project at Mt. Labo in Camarines Sur.

EDC also wants a contract for Puting Lupa in Laguna where there is potential for 17 MW, up against an application for the same from MASE Power Corp.

There were no takers for contracts covering Maricaban Island in Batangas (4 MW) and Itogon in Benguet (9 MW).

Even then, the five applications for geothermal service contracts were found complete and are up for evaluation.

As for 17 areas with potential hydro projects, two companies submitted applications covering eight PDAs. There were no applicants for contract on nine PDAs.

Total Power Inc. submitted applications and Century Peak Energy Corp. turned in five applications.

However, the DOE said all applications for hydro projects were found incomplete. The applicants may file motions for reconsideration no later than Feb. 18.