SMC Global Power Holdings’ first 20MW battery storage begins operation in the Philippines - Asian Power

SMC Global Power Holdings’ first 20MW battery storage begins operation in the Philippines - Asian Power

Published March 16, 2026

SMC Global Power Holdings Launches First 20MW Battery Storage Project in the Philippines

SMC Global Power Holdings Corp. has officially commenced operations of its inaugural 20-megawatt (MW) battery energy storage system (BESS) in the Philippines. This significant development marks a pivotal step in the company’s efforts to enhance the reliability and sustainability of the country's energy infrastructure.

Located in the municipality of Bataan, the newly operational battery storage facility is part of SMC Global Power’s broader strategy to integrate renewable energy sources into the national grid. The project aims to bolster the energy supply and support the transition towards cleaner energy alternatives.

Enhancing Grid Stability

The 20MW battery storage system is designed to provide essential services to the grid, such as frequency regulation and load shifting. This capability is critical in managing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, which can fluctuate based on weather conditions.

By storing excess energy generated during peak production periods and discharging it during times of high demand, the battery storage system enhances the overall stability and reliability of the power grid. This functionality is particularly important in the Philippines, where energy demand continues to grow, and the need for reliable power supply becomes increasingly crucial.

Investment in Renewable Energy

SMC Global Power's investment in this battery storage project is part of a larger commitment to renewable energy development. The company has been actively pursuing various initiatives to diversify its energy portfolio, focusing on sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions.

The 20MW battery storage facility is expected to play a vital role in supporting the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid, thereby contributing to the Philippines’ goal of increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix. This aligns with the government's efforts to promote clean energy and reduce the country's reliance on fossil fuels.

Future Prospects

With the successful launch of its first battery storage project, SMC Global Power Holdings is looking to expand its capabilities in energy storage. The company aims to explore additional opportunities for battery storage systems across the country, which could further enhance grid resilience and support the growth of renewable energy.

As the Philippines continues to face challenges related to energy supply and demand, the implementation of advanced energy storage solutions will be crucial in addressing these issues. The ability to store energy for later use will not only improve the reliability of the power supply but also facilitate the integration of more renewable energy projects in the future.

Conclusion

The launch of SMC Global Power Holdings’ 20MW battery storage system represents a significant milestone in the Philippines’ journey towards a more sustainable energy future. By investing in innovative energy solutions, the company is contributing to the development of a more resilient and environmentally friendly power grid.

As the demand for clean energy continues to rise, projects like this will be instrumental in shaping the future of the Philippines' energy landscape, ensuring that the country can meet its energy needs while adhering to environmental sustainability goals.

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In round 2 of Philippine geothermal project, tribes dig in for a greater say - Mongabay

In round 2 of Philippine geothermal project, tribes dig in for a greater say - Mongabay

Published March 16, 2026

Round 2 of Philippine Geothermal Project: Indigenous Tribes Advocate for Increased Involvement

The Philippine government is advancing its geothermal energy initiatives, particularly through the second round of a competitive bidding process for geothermal energy development. This phase has sparked considerable interest from various stakeholders, especially indigenous tribes, who are now seeking a more significant role in the decision-making processes that affect their ancestral lands.

Geothermal energy has long been recognized as a crucial component of the Philippines’ renewable energy portfolio. The country is home to some of the largest geothermal power plants in the world, contributing significantly to the national grid. However, the involvement of local communities, particularly indigenous groups, in the management and benefits of these resources has been limited historically.

In the latest bidding round, the Department of Energy (DOE) has opened up several geothermal areas for development. These include regions that are traditionally inhabited by various indigenous tribes. The DOE aims to attract both local and international investors to harness the geothermal potential of the Philippines, which is estimated to be around 4,000 megawatts. The government has expressed its commitment to sustainable development and the responsible use of natural resources, but the question remains: how will this commitment translate into action for the indigenous communities?

Indigenous Communities Demand Greater Representation

As the bidding process unfolds, indigenous groups are increasingly vocal about their rights and the need for their voices to be heard. Many tribal leaders argue that they should be consulted and involved in the planning and implementation of geothermal projects on their ancestral lands. This demand for greater representation is rooted in the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, which recognizes the rights of indigenous communities to their ancestral domains and mandates their participation in decision-making processes.

One of the tribes advocating for this change is the Igorot tribe, which has historically been affected by various energy projects in the Cordillera region. Tribal leaders have expressed concerns that past geothermal projects have often proceeded without adequate consultation or consideration of the potential impacts on their communities and environment.

“We want to ensure that our rights are respected and that we are part of the conversation,” said a representative from the Igorot tribe. “Geothermal resources are part of our land and heritage, and we should have a say in how they are developed.”

Government’s Commitment to Inclusivity

The Philippine government has acknowledged the importance of engaging with indigenous communities in the development of geothermal resources. The DOE has stated that it is committed to ensuring that the rights of indigenous peoples are upheld during the bidding process and throughout the lifecycle of geothermal projects.

“We recognize that the participation of indigenous communities is vital for the success of these projects,” said a DOE official. “We are working to create frameworks that will allow for meaningful consultation and collaboration with these communities.”

To facilitate this engagement, the DOE has initiated various programs aimed at educating indigenous groups about geothermal energy and the potential benefits it can bring. These programs include workshops and information sessions designed to inform communities about the technical aspects of geothermal development and the potential economic opportunities that could arise from it.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the government’s commitment to inclusivity, challenges remain. One significant hurdle is the lack of resources and capacity among indigenous communities to effectively engage with large corporations and government entities. Many tribes may lack the technical expertise or financial resources to navigate the complex landscape of energy development.

Additionally, there are concerns about the potential environmental impacts of geothermal projects. Indigenous groups often have deep cultural and spiritual connections to their lands, and any disruption to these areas can have profound effects on their way of life. As such, it is crucial that environmental assessments are conducted thoroughly and transparently, with input from affected communities.

Looking Forward

The second round of geothermal project bidding represents a pivotal moment for both the Philippine government and indigenous communities. As the country seeks to expand its renewable energy capacity, it must also ensure that the rights and voices of indigenous peoples are respected and integrated into the decision-making processes.

As the bidding progresses, stakeholders are hopeful that the lessons learned from past projects will lead to more equitable and inclusive practices in the future. The desire for collaboration and mutual benefit is shared by many, and the successful integration of indigenous voices into geothermal development could serve as a model for other renewable energy initiatives in the country.

The outcome of this geothermal bidding round will not only shape the future of energy in the Philippines but also set a precedent for how indigenous rights are recognized and upheld in the context of natural resource management. As the nation moves forward, the emphasis on collaboration and respect for ancestral rights will be critical in achieving sustainable and inclusive energy development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the second round of geothermal project bidding in the Philippines highlights the growing demand for indigenous participation in energy development. As the government pushes for increased geothermal energy production, the involvement of local tribes is essential to ensure that their rights are respected and their voices are heard. The path forward will require commitment from both the government and energy developers to foster a collaborative environment that honors the cultural heritage and environmental stewardship of indigenous communities.

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Thailand's Banpu Power plans $90m energy storage project in US - Nikkei Asia

Thailand's Banpu Power plans $90m energy storage project in US - Nikkei Asia

Published March 15, 2026

Thailand's Banpu Power Unveils $90 Million Energy Storage Initiative in the United States

Banpu Power, a leading energy company based in Thailand, has announced its plans to invest $90 million in a new energy storage project located in the United States. This initiative marks a significant step for the company as it seeks to expand its footprint in the renewable energy sector and enhance its capabilities in energy storage solutions.

The project aims to develop a state-of-the-art energy storage system designed to support the growing demand for renewable energy and improve grid reliability. With the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, energy storage has become a critical component in managing energy supply and demand effectively.

Banpu Power's investment aligns with the company's strategic objectives to diversify its energy portfolio and embrace sustainable practices. The energy storage system will not only provide a reliable backup during peak demand periods but also facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.

The announcement comes at a time when the global energy landscape is rapidly changing, with many countries, including the United States, pushing for a transition to cleaner energy sources. The U.S. government has set ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy, creating a favorable environment for investments in energy storage technologies.

Banpu Power's commitment to this project underscores its dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions. The company has been actively involved in various renewable energy projects across the Asia-Pacific region, and this new initiative in the U.S. represents an important milestone in its growth strategy.

The energy storage project is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the resilience of the energy grid, especially in regions that experience fluctuations in energy supply. By storing excess energy generated during periods of high production, the system will help balance the grid and ensure a steady supply of electricity during times of high demand.

In addition to improving grid stability, the energy storage system will also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By facilitating the use of renewable energy sources, the project will support efforts to achieve a more sustainable energy future.

Banpu Power's investment in energy storage technology is part of a broader trend within the energy sector, where companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating storage solutions into their operations. As the demand for renewable energy continues to rise, energy storage systems are becoming essential for managing the variability of these resources.

The U.S. energy market presents significant opportunities for growth, particularly in the realm of energy storage. With advancements in technology and decreasing costs, energy storage solutions are becoming more accessible and viable for a wide range of applications.

Banpu Power's decision to invest in the U.S. market reflects its confidence in the potential for energy storage to transform the energy landscape. The company aims to leverage its expertise and experience in renewable energy to develop innovative solutions that meet the needs of consumers and businesses alike.

As the energy transition accelerates, Banpu Power is well-positioned to play a key role in shaping the future of energy storage. The company's commitment to sustainability and innovation will be instrumental in driving advancements in this critical area of the energy sector.

In conclusion, Banpu Power's $90 million investment in an energy storage project in the United States represents a significant step forward in the company's efforts to expand its renewable energy portfolio. The project is expected to enhance grid reliability, support the integration of renewable energy sources, and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.

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