Southeast Asia’s first tidal energy plant unveiled in the Philippines
By Water Power Magazine | February 5, 2024
View looking out from Capul Lighthouse over San Bernardino Strait. (Photo Credit: Inyanga Marine Energy Group)
Energies PH, Inc, through its affiliate, the San Bernardino Ocean Power Corporation, has announced plans for the construction of Southeast Asia’s inaugural tidal power generation plant. The project is set to be situated on the remote Capul Island of Northern Samar in the Philippines, strategically located along the robust marine currents of the San Bernardino Strait.
The Inyanga Marine Energy Group has been awarded the contract for Engineering, Procurement, and Construction. The 1MW project is anticipated to commence operations by late 2025 and will use Inyanga’s HydroWing tidal stream technology.
The HydroWing tidal stream turbines will be connected into Capul Island’s electrical network, addressing the energy needs of the currently off-grid locale, which relies on a 750kW diesel power plant. The first phase of the project involves the establishment of a 1MW tidal power plant, connected to a microgrid network alongside Solar PV and energy storage. This approach aims to provide a dependable, environmentally friendly, and cost-competitive alternative to conventional fossil-based power generation.
Antonio Ver, the co-chairman and CEO of Energies PH, expressed his vision for the project, stating: “As we embark on this pioneering tidal power plant for the Philippines, our vision is to replicate this in several off-grid sites all over the country to provide electricity in the hinterlands.” Ver emphasized the potential of the initiative to contribute to the creation of sustainable communities across the Philippines, enhancing access to education, health services, and livelihood opportunities in remote areas.
Richard Parkinson, CEO of Inyanga Marine Energy Group, highlighted the predictability and reliability of tidal stream energy, describing it as the “most predictable and reliable form of renewable energy.” Parkinson further commended the HydroWing technology for being at the forefront of innovation and providing a cost-effective solution to harnessing the power of ocean tides.
Jean-Christophe Allo, Commercial Manager at Inyanga, added excitement about the project, stating: “This exciting project will create a step change for the remote community on Capul. It will bring tidal energy to the region of Southeast Asia for the first time.” Allo emphasized the transformative impact of the project on the Capul community, mentioning the installation of an onshore storage facility to ensure a continuous 24/7 power supply, a significant improvement from the current 8 to 16 hours of energy per day with frequent blackouts.
Looking ahead, San Bernardino Ocean Power Corporation has outlined plans for additional tidal power generation sites, with San Antonio Island in Northern Samar and Calintaan Island in Matnog, Sorsogon, earmarked for subsequent deployment.
Source: Water Power Magazine