Article

GIGA ACE 8, INC., a subsidiary of ACEN Corp., aims to start commercial operations at its expanded Palauig solar farm in Zambales province in Q1 2027. The expansion, valued at P26 billion, will increase capacity to 420 MWp from 300 MWp, covering 369.83 hectares and adding 196,784 photovoltaic modules.

An environmental compliance certificate has been secured for the upgraded 246-MWp solar plant, reflecting the increased output and area. The plant, in Bulawen and Salaza villages, was chosen for its accessibility and low geological hazard risk.

The expansion will include a battery energy storage system with a capacity of up to 347 megawatts. As of November 2025, construction was 88.19% complete, with the solar plant expected to operate for 25 years and battery units for 15 years. A public hearing for the environmental impact assessment is scheduled for January 28-29.