ENERGY DEVELOPMENT Corp. (EDC) is planning to take a position about P25 billion to enhance steamfield performance and expand energy storage capability at its Southern Negros geothermal operations, in line with a filing with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
The corporate is looking for to amend its environmental compliance certificate (ECC) to permit expanded operations, additional drilling and infrastructure to support long-term steam production.
EDC said the initiative wouldn’t increase the sector’s installed capability of 282.5 megawatts (MW), but would improve how steam resources are managed, enhance operational flexibility and ensure stable supply in the long run.
“The proposed modifications are intended to support sustained geothermal steam production, improve reservoir management, optimize operational efficiency, and strengthen energy reliability inside the Southern Negros Geothermal Project,” the corporate said.
While the general project area has been reduced, operational space for facilities will expand from 151.5 hectares to 400 hectares to accommodate additional infrastructure.
The corporate plans to drill eight more wells, bringing the whole to 137, and construct two more well pads, increasing the whole to 41.
EDC also proposed expanding its battery energy storage system (BESS) capability from an initial 30 megawatt-hours, with plans to triple its scale to support grid stability and improve dispatch flexibility.
“Because the project will likely be utilizing naturally occurring steam from the earth, the electricity generated by the project is predicted to offset the facility generated by coal and oil-fired power plants within the country,” EDC said. “Further, the project will help improve fuel security and stability.”
The Southern Negros facility has exceeded its 25-year average geothermal field lifespan but continues to generate output, in line with the corporate.
EDC, the renewable energy arm of Lopez-led First Gen Corp., has an installed capability of 1,480.19 MW, accounting for about 20% of the country’s renewable energy output.
The corporate has been developing geothermal assets since 1976 across Bicol, Leyte, Negros Island and Mindanao, making it one in all the country’s biggest geothermal operators. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera