The Terra Solar Project — a $3 billion renewable energy initiative by Terra Solar Philippines — will feature a 3.5GW solar photovoltaic plant and a 4.5GWh battery energy storage system, thereby making it one of the world's largest solar farms. Covering 3,000 hectares north of Manila, it is expected to meet 12% of the Philippines' energy demand and produce over five billion kWh annually.
Terra Solar Project: A Massive Undertaking
The Terra Solar Project — a $3 billion initiative — is set to transform the energy landscape in the Philippines. Developed by Terra Solar Philippines, a subsidiary of SP New Energy (SPNEC), this groundbreaking project marks a significant advancement in renewable energy adoption in Southeast Asia.
Located 150 kilometers north of Manila, the Terra Solar Project will cover 3,000 hectares. The site will house over five million solar panels, creating a 3.5-gigawatt (GW) solar photovoltaic (PV) plant. Additionally, it includes a 4.5-gigawatt-hour (GWh) battery energy storage system (BESS).
Once completed, the Terra Solar Project will rank among the largest solar farms in the world. It is designed to meet 12% of the Philippines' energy needs. With an estimated annual output exceeding five billion kilowatt hours (kWh), it will significantly outpace existing solar farms in the region.
Jacobs: The Chosen Partner
Terra Solar Philippines has selected Jacobs, a leading global engineering firm, to provide engineering, technical, and construction services for the project. Jacobs plans to integrate cutting-edge digital tools, including drone technology, to optimize site inspections and monitor construction progress.
The company's role extends beyond construction management. Jacobs will also oversee equipment delivery logistics. This involves coordinating the manufacturing, inspection, shipping, and installation of solar panels. Such precision and efficiency aim to keep the project on track for its first-phase launch in Q1 2026.
Fiachra Ó Cléirigh, Vice President of Jacobs, emphasized the project’s importance. He stated, "The Terra Solar Project will significantly reduce the country’s reliance on coal, decrease energy-related emissions, and bolster progress toward a more sustainable, secure, and resilient energy system."
A Global Benchmark
The Terra Solar Project is poised to surpass solar farms in China and India. When operational, it will eclipse the capacity of China's Golmud Solar Park and India's Bhadla Solar Park — both of which currently lead the world in size and capacity with 2.2GW.
Dennis Jordan, President of MGEN Renewable Energy, highlighted the project’s game-changing potential. "Not only will Terra Solar provide clean energy for the Philippines, but it will also change the whole dynamics of the energy industry," he said.
Jordan pointed out that combining solar energy with advanced battery technology allows for more than just environmental benefits. It enables solar power to compete with traditional energy sources in terms of reliability and cost.
Environmental and Economic Impact
The Terra Solar Project is a significant step in the Philippines' energy transition. By reducing reliance on coal, it addresses the urgent need to cut energy-related emissions. Additionally, it aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability. The project will also generate economic benefits. Construction and operational phases are expected to create jobs, stimulate local economies, and attract further investment into the country’s renewable energy sector.
As the Terra Solar Project gears up for its first phase in 2026, it sets a new benchmark for renewable energy projects. Combining scale, innovation, and sustainability, the project reflects the Philippines’ commitment to clean energy.
Jacobs’ leadership in engineering and construction — combined with the strong backing of investors like Actis — ensures the Terra Solar Project is set to transform the Philippine energy sector and establish a benchmark for renewable energy worldwide. More than a solar farm, it stands as a testament to the power of innovation and commitment to sustainability, thus solidifying a bold vision for a cleaner and greener future.