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Agusan del Norte is preparing for a significant infusion of renewable energy, with more than 325 megawatts (MW) of new capacity lined up and a unified permitting framework underway to accelerate the project rollout, according to the Department of Energy (DOE).
The developments position the province as one of Mindanao’s emerging clean energy hubs as it strengthens supply security and supports the region’s growing demand.
DOE data presented to provincial officials show that Agusan del Norte is poised to host 325.07 MW of new renewable and storage capacity, anchored by major wind and hydropower projects.
Clean Energy To Bolster Grid
The largest addition is the 200-MW Lake Mainit Wind Power Project, owned by UPC Mindanao Wind Power Corp., which will span municipalities in Surigao del Norte and Agusan del Norte. The DOE also cited 30 MW of hydropower capacity, including the FGen Puro Hydro facility now being developed in Jabonga.
Committed solar projects will contribute 11.07 MW, while a planned 48-MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is expected to help stabilize supply and improve grid reliability across Mindanao. Seven transmission improvement projects are also in the pipeline to support the energy buildout.
Acceleration Through Unified Permitting
One major source of optimism is the DOE’s recent introduction of its standardized Local Government Unit (LGU) Ordinance Template for Energy Infrastructure Projects (EIPs). This is a significant policy tool designed to streamline local permitting for energy developers and align provincial rules with national priorities.
Officials discussed long-term energy planning, expected revenue streams for host LGUs, and strategies to maintain Agusan del Norte’s energy self-sufficiency. DOE Undersecretary Mylene C. Capongcol said the standardized ordinance would enable LGUs to take a more proactive role in project implementation.
“Agusan del Norte’s commitment to achieving energy security through innovative, indigenous renewable solutions sets a strong example for the country,” Capongcol said. “By harnessing its local resources, the province is ensuring reliable, accessible, and sustainable power for its people while contributing meaningfully to our national energy goals.”
The permitting initiative forms part of a national rollout led by Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin, which has already reached several provinces, including Batangas, Pangasinan, and Tarlac.
Stronger Energy Resilience
Agusan del Norte has already achieved 100 percent household electrification, the DOE noted. Officials are now shifting focus toward resilience measures, including integrating renewable sources with water-energy systems and preparing for supply fluctuations.
The province’s broader energy development plan stands at 457.97 MW, reflecting both committed and potential projects across wind, hydro, and solar. Local leaders are also evaluating participation in the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP), which aims to cut electricity consumption in public buildings by at least 10 percent through efficiency upgrades and potential solar rooftop installations.
Anchoring Mindanao’s Renewable Energy Expansion
As part of the engagement, DOE officials inspected the 24.9-MW Lake Mainit Hydroelectric Power Plant in Jabonga, operated by Agusan Power Corporation. Aside from supplying clean power to the Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ANECO), the facility provides flood-control benefits that safeguard agricultural communities around the watershed.
With major wind, hydro, and storage projects advancing simultaneously and new permitting standards expected to streamline future development, Agusan del Norte is becoming a key contributor to Mindanao’s renewable energy trajectory. Provincial leaders and the DOE said continued coordination will be essential to attracting investment and ensuring long-term supply stability.
Source:
https://mb.com.ph/2025/11/17/doe-unveils-325-mw-re-surge-for-agusan-del-norte
https://manilastandard.net/business/314669153/agusan-del-nortes-energy-plan-lauded.html
