Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 16, Maibarara Geothermal Inc. (MGI) has submitted a filing to the Philippines’ Department of Environment and Natural Resources outlining its plan to expand geothermal power generation in Sto. Tomas, Batangas. The company intends to build a new facility with an additional capacity of 25 to 40 MW. The expansion is projected to cost PhP 8.9 billion (approximately USD 155 million).

Maibarara Geothermal Power Plant, Sto. Tomas, Batangas, Philippines

According to the filing, construction of the new plant is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2027. Commissioning is targeted between 2029 and 2031, with commercial operations expected to start by 2031. The plan also covers drilling of new production and reinjection wells, as well as the development of discharge facilities. Related to this, MGI is preparing an exploration drilling program in an undrilled section of its geothermal field, which is expected to commence in 2026.

MGI currently operates the 20-MW Maibarara 1 and the 12-MW Maibarara 2 geothermal power plants. The company had announced expansion intentions in 2022, and the new filing demonstrates continued progress. Earlier in 2025, MGI secured key land assets where steam fields and access roads are situated, providing stronger support for operational continuity and future growth.

The company is a joint venture owned by PetroGreen Energy Corp. with 65% shareholding, ACEN Corp. with 25%, and PNOC Renewable Corp. with 10%.

In its filing, MGI emphasized the broader benefits of the expansion: “Viewed on a broader scale, the project will contribute additional generation capacity to the Luzon grid, addressing the country’s persistent power shortages and supplying power to new infrastructure to be built by the government or the private sector in the future, leading to additional jobs.”

The project comes at a time when demand for stable energy supply in Luzon continues to grow. By adding capacity, the expansion is positioned to ease shortages and strengthen grid reliability. At the same time, development of new geothermal resources reflects the potential of renewable energy in supporting long-term sustainability.

Industry observers note that the timeline allows for thorough preparation, with exploration activities starting in 2026 and construction scheduled for 2027. This phased approach aligns with the company’s strategy of gradual capacity building while securing the land and infrastructure needed to ensure reliable operations.

The Maibarara field has already demonstrated viability through its two operating plants, and the planned expansion signals further utilization of available resources. By integrating new wells and enhancing existing infrastructure, MGI aims to build on its current position as a renewable energy provider in the Philippines.

With the completion of the project by 2031, Luzon’s power supply could see meaningful improvements, contributing both to energy stability and economic development. The filing highlights MGI’s commitment to expanding geothermal energy while aligning with national needs for additional generation capacity.