Meralco plans to build 300MW hydroelectric plant in Philippines

Philippines-based power distributor Meralco (Manila Electric) is planning to build a 300MW hydroelectric power plant.

The company is also exploring another 500MW to 600MW coal-fired power project in addition to its planned coal project with a capacity of 600MW at the Subic Freeport. Meralco COO Oscar Reyes said there are various potential of about 150-300MW of impounding hydro and with hydro there would be bulk water and power supply for Metro Manila.

In addition, Meralco was also looking at a natural gas or liquefied natural gas power project, depending on the availability of fuel supply, added Reyes. Meralco president and CEO Manuel Pangilinan said the company is looking at various options to fast-track its development of other generating plants. “We are inspired by the resilience of the distribution business and aim not only to build on this legacy but also to re-shape the business by competitively re-entering the power generation business and building our other subsidiaries,” added Pangilinan.