MTerra Solar Project Begins Power Supply to Luzon Grid

The MTerra Solar project, heralded as the largest integrated solar and battery storage facility globally, has officially begun supplying electricity to the Luzon grid, following the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines' (NGCP) approval for an initial capacity of 750 megawatts (MW). This milestone was confirmed by the Department of Energy (DoE) on July 14, 2026.

Energy Undersecretary Mario C. Marasigan stated that the initial phase of the project will contribute significantly to the grid, with expectations to ramp up to 1,350 MW in the coming months. The entire MTerra Solar project, developed by Terra Solar Philippines, Inc., an affiliate of Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN), encompasses a total capacity of 3,500 megawatts-peak (MWp) and a battery energy storage system of 4,500 megawatt-hours (MWh).

“These capabilities will help strengthen the stability of our power system while expanding the role of clean energy in our power generation mix.”Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., President of the Philippines

During the inauguration in Gapan City, Nueva Ecija, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the project's significance in reducing the Philippines' reliance on imported fossil fuels. He noted that last year, coal constituted 57% of the nation's power generation mix, while renewable energy only accounted for approximately 25%. He remarked that such an energy mix leaves the country more vulnerable to fluctuations in global fuel prices.

Phase 1 of the project is reported to be 91% complete and is anticipated to commence commercial operations by August 2026. Currently, 1,373 MWp of solar photovoltaic capacity and 3,300 MWh of battery storage have been energized. The project spans 3,500 hectares across five municipalities in Nueva Ecija and Bulacan.

“The price, it’s a curve, it goes up at night. So, this is mid-merit, so we can sell it at the time to bring down the price.”Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman and CEO of Meralco

Meralco Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan highlighted that the MTerra Solar project will play a crucial role in lowering electricity prices. He explained that the price tends to increase at night, and the project will allow for mid-merit capacity to be sold at that time to help bring down costs.

Upon full completion, the facility is expected to supply clean energy to around 2.4 million households and reduce carbon emissions by approximately 4.3 million metric tons annually. This aligns with the government's goal to increase the renewable energy mix to 40% by 2040, as stated by Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin, who noted that the scale of the project is expected to help drive electricity prices down over time.

“The massive power project will help the country move towards cleaner and more sustainable energy.”Sharon S. Garin, Energy Secretary

The project is projected to generate financial benefits such as increased tax revenues for local government units and direct financial assistance to host communities.

The second phase of the MTerra Solar project is expected to further enhance MGEN's renewable energy capacity, exceeding its target of 1,500 MW.