SPNEC seeks ERC OK for MTerra Solar integration

SP New Energy Corp. (SPNEC), chaired by tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan, is seeking regulatory approval to build a transmission system that will connect the $4-billion MTerra Solar project into the national grid.

- By BRIX LELIS

SPNEC, through Terra Solar Philippines Inc. (TSPI), has filed an application to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to develop and operate dedicated point-to-point limited transmission facilities.

The connection will be done through bus-in arrangements along the Nagsaag-San Jose 500 kilo Volt (kV) transmission line of the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP).

Following a thorough review of all available options, TSPI has determined that this arrangement is the "most cost-effective and technically viable option" for the immediate interconnection of the solar facility.

"Connecting (MTerra Solar) to the Luzon grid via bus-in connection along the Nagsaag-San Jose 500 kV transmission line is an essential requisite to the plant's commercial operations scheduled in the first quarter of 2026," it said.