The Cebu Provincial Government has unveiled a comprehensive energy strategy that includes the construction of a solar power plant, the reactivation of the Alegria Oil Field, and the deployment of 100 electric buses. Governor Pamela Baricuatro announced the initiative on Friday, April 24, during a forum held in Cebu.
Solar Power Plant in Northern Cebu
A key component of the plan is a 150-megawatt peak solar power plant in Daanbantayan. This project is a collaborative effort between the Provincial Government, Acciona Energía, and Freya Renewables. It follows a memorandum of understanding signed in October 2023 in Cebu City by then-Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and representatives of the companies.
At the time, Garcia emphasized that the solar facility would help reduce power costs, attract investments, and provide support to low-income residents. Acciona has been active in the Philippines since 2016, working on water and infrastructure projects, including the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway.
Revival of Alegria Oil Field
Cebu is also moving to restart operations at the Alegria Oil Field, which has been inactive for three years. New petroleum service contracts were approved in April by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Governor Baricuatro noted that the onshore oil and gas site is expected to provide a local fuel supply, shielding the province from volatile global fuel prices. Officials also anticipate job creation and a boost to industrial activity.
100 Electric Buses for Public Transport
The province is upgrading its transportation system through a partnership with Global Electric Transport Philippines. The plan includes 100 electric buses to serve Metro Cebu, component cities, and tourism destinations such as Bantayan Island and Camotes Islands. Supported by the Department of Transportation, the project aims to deliver cleaner and more efficient public transport. Officials believe the buses will lower operating costs for drivers, reduce fares for commuters, and cut carbon emissions in congested areas.
Part of a Long-Term Development Vision
These initiatives are part of a new Provincial Energy Master Plan aligned with the Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050. The national plan targets 40 percent renewable energy by 2030 and over 50 percent by 2040. The projects also support Cebu's “Ato ang Sugbo” development vision for 2025 to 2035, which aims to position the province as a leading hub for culture and industry through climate-smart investments and a strengthened local energy system.
