Introduction
The Global Carbon Council (GCC) is proud to announce the registration of PH Renewables, Inc.’s 75MWac solar power project in the Philippines. This registration signifies a substantial step in strengthening the nation’s renewable energy capacity and underscores a dedicated commitment to sustainable development.
Project Overview
Situated in the Philippines, the 75MWac (approximately 115 MWp) solar power project by PH Renewables, Inc. is poised to deliver clean, renewable energy to the national electricity grid. By significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions, this project promises substantial environmental and social benefits.
Project Highlights
- Project Name: Solar Power Project in the Philippines
- Location: Philippines
- Project Owner: PH Renewables, Inc.
- Project Type: Solar Power
- Capacity: 75 MW
- Methodology: GCCM001: Grid-connected electricity generation from renewable sources — Version 3.0
- Emissions Reduction: 99,100 tCO2e/year
- Registration Date: April 4, 2024
Objective
To generate and deliver GHG-free electricity to the Philippines’ national grid, reducing fossil fuel dependence and achieving significant greenhouse gas emission reductions.
Project Boundary
The project’s operational boundary includes the physical area where solar panels are installed to harness solar energy efficiently. The site, located in Barangay Pinugay, Baras, Rizal Province in the Philippines, is strategically chosen to optimize sunlight exposure and minimize environmental impact.
Methodology Applied
Methodology Name: GCCM001: Grid-connected electricity generation from renewable sources — Version 3.0
The PH Renewables’ 75MWac Solar Power Project adheres to the GCCM001 methodology, certified by GCC. In line with the methodology, the project has successfully determined its baseline which is in the absence of project activity, the electricity delivered to the grid by the project activity would be generated by the operation of grid connected power plants and by the addition of new generation sources into the grid. The project has considered all pertinent national and/or sectoral policies, regulations, and prevailing circumstances during the establishment of the baseline scenario.
This methodology outlines stringent standards and procedures for grid-connected electricity generation from renewable sources.
Rigorous environmental criteria are met, focusing on minimizing ecological footprint and preserving natural habitats through responsible project design and implementation.
Optimized operational processes to maximize energy yield from solar resources, enhancing overall project performance and reliability.
Specific measures to quantify and verify greenhouse gas emission reductions, contributing to global efforts in mitigating climate change.
Adherence to regulatory requirements and industry best practices to ensure the project’s compliance with national and international standards for renewable energy projects.
The project is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an impressive 99,100 tCO2e per year, with verification confirming this reduction. This represents a significant contribution to mitigating climate change.
This project has earned E+ (Environmental Plus) and S+ (Social Plus) labels for its robust environmental and social safeguards, respectively, highlighting its significant contributions across various areas.
E+ Label (Environmental Plus):
Under the E+ Label (Environmental Plus), the project demonstrates significant achievements in environmental safeguards. It implements robust initiatives for solid waste management, ensuring the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials such as transformer oil, e-waste, used batteries, and end-of-life products in strict compliance with legal regulations. Moreover, the project maintains minimal and carefully monitored water consumption for operational needs, showcasing its positive environmental footprint and commitment to regulatory standards.
S+ Label (Social Plus):
The project has achieved notable social safeguards, ensuring positive impacts and compliance with regulations. It generates both long-term and short-term employment opportunities during the construction and operation phases while maintaining non-discriminatory hiring practices. A Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) plan addresses occupational hazards effectively, with a robust sanitation and waste management plan ensuring safe domestic waste disposal. The project strictly prohibits child labor and guarantees minimum wage protection in accordance with local regulations. These efforts collectively create a safe, equitable, and compliant working environment, showcasing commitment to social welfare and human rights.
Contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - Silver Level
The project contributes significantly to several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will generate an estimated 1,608,780 MWh of renewable electricity, supporting Goal 7 for sustainable energy access. It aims to create jobs in the renewable energy sector, aligning with Goal 8’s target for full and productive employment. Annually reducing greenhouse gas emissions of 99,100 tCO2e, it addresses Goal 13 by integrating climate change measures into national policies. These efforts highlight the project’s impact in promoting clean energy, economic growth, and climate action, thus contributing to UN SDGs.
Verification
Project Verifier: Carbon Check (India) Private Limited
The project’s adherence to rigorous standards is verified by Carbon Check (India) Private Limited (CCIPL) ensuring transparency and reliability in its emission reductions and sustainable practices. It has verified and certified that the GCC project activity “Solar Power Project in the Philippines” meets all necessary criteria for registration under the GCC Program. The project accurately describes its activities in alignment with the approved methodology GCCM001, version 03.0, ensuring additional and measurable GHG emission reductions. It has conducted thorough stakeholder consultations, calculated emission estimates conservatively, and complies with ISO 14064-2 and ISO 14064-3 standards. It aligns with environmental and social safeguards standards, aiming for E+ and S+ labels, and contributes significantly to achieving three SDGs, achieving a silver SDG certification label (SDG+). Additionally, the project meets all GCC Program and CORSIA requirements.
Conclusion
PH Renewables’ 75MWac solar power project marks a transformative milestone in the Philippines’ renewable energy landscape. With its robust contributions to cleaner energy production, significant emission reductions, and positive community impacts, this project exemplifies how renewable energy can drive sustainable development and effectively address climate change.
