ACEN Strengthens RE Footprint in North Luzon with 133 MW Cagayan North Solar

ACEN, the listed energy platform of the Ayala group, continues to reinforce its renewable energy presence in North Luzon through the 133 MW Cagayan North Solar project located in the municipality of Lal-lo, Cagayan.

​Developed in partnership with CleanTech Renewable Energy 4 Corp. (CleanTech), the solar farm contributes to the Luzon grid’s energy supply, supporting the region’s growing power needs and accelerating the country’s energy transition.

Spanning 115 hectares, the solar facility generates an estimated 188 GWh of clean electricity annually—enough to power around 45,000 homes—while avoiding approximately 128,000 metric tonnes of carbon emissions per year. As the first utility-scale solar project in Cagayan province, Cagayan North Solar underscores the importance of expanding renewable energy access to more regions in the Philippines.

Eric Francia, ACEN president and CEO, said: “Cagayan North Solar is the first renewable energy project in Cagayan supplying clean power to the Luzon grid. As demand for electricity continues to grow, this project plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s energy supply through reliable and sustainable generation.”

CleanTech Global Renewables, Inc. President and CEO Salvador Antonio Castro Jr. added: “The Cagayan North Solar power plant is more than just an energy source, it’s a symbol of progress. By delivering clean, renewable electricity to the grid, it strengthens the Philippines' energy resilience while reducing carbon emissions. For host communities, it means new jobs, better infrastructure, and a sustainable future. With every ray of sunlight captured, we illuminate lives and power a nation towards a greener tomorrow."

Investing in community transformation

Cagayan North Solar is designed not only to deliver environmental benefits but also to generate positive, lasting impact for the communities of Lal-lo. During construction, the project created around 1,000 green jobs, helping stimulate local employment and economic activity in the province.

In partnership with the local government, ACEN and CleanTech are also implementing community development programs aimed at improving access to education and public infrastructure. These include the PhP14-million construction of Bical National High School—the first high school in the remote barangay of Bical—featuring four classrooms to accommodate up to 200 students.

To further support community well-being, the project has funded two multi-purpose gymnasiums in Barangay Magapit and Barangay Sta. Maria, with a total donation of PhP4 million. These spaces will serve as venues for local gatherings, sports activities, and emergency response efforts.

In times of disaster, the project partners have also extended timely assistance. In collaboration with Ayala Foundation, 500 relief bags were distributed to families affected by Typhoon Ofel in late 2024, reinforcing ACEN’s commitment to building resilient communities.

Outgoing Lal-lo Mayor Florante Pascual expressed his support for the project, stating: “Cagayan North Solar exemplifies Lal-lo’s commitment to sustainable development by prioritizing renewable energy sources. It reduces reliance on non-renewable energy, helping the municipality transition to a cleaner and greener future. The project also fosters inclusive development by channeling benefits directly to host communities.”

Cagayan North Solar is owned 60% by ACEN and 40% by CleanTech, and is a key part of both companies’ efforts to advance the Philippines’ clean energy goals while making a tangible difference in people’s lives.

ACEN (PSE:ACEN), the Ayala group’s listed energy platform, is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy platforms in Asia Pacific, with the Philippines as its core and largest market. It also has a significant presence in Australia, Vietnam, India, and Lao PDR, along with strategic investments in Indonesia and other markets. The company currently has ~7 GW of attributable renewable energy capacity spanning operational, under-construction, and committed projects.

As a developer, builder, and operator, ACEN leverages its agility and collaborative approach to accelerate the energy transition. Committed to unlocking access to clean, reliable, and affordable renewable energy, the company is on track to achieve 100% renewable energy generation by 2025 and reach Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050—turning bold ambitions into real impact for businesses, communities, and indigenous groups.