Emerging Power, Inc. (EPI), the renewable energy subsidiary of Nickel Asia Corp. (NAC), has allocated up to USD 169.66 million in capital expenditures this year as it expands its solar and battery energy storage system projects.

The projected capital expenditure represents about 88% of NAC's total budget for the year and exceeds last year's USD 125.30 million allocation, based on the company's presentation.

Solar Project Pipeline and Development Plans

Among its pipeline, EPI plans to energize the initial phase of its solar power project in Botolan, Zambales, which has a capacity of 45 megawatts (MW). The company's joint venture with Shell Overseas Investments B.V., which covers Phase 1 of the San Isidro, Leyte solar project, was energized last year and is set to add 120 MW this year.

For next year, EPI plans to complete the initial phase of its 145-MW solar project in Zambales and the 50-MW solar farm in Hermosa, Bataan. EPI currently operates with a total capacity of 172 MW.

Battery Energy Storage Integration Strategy

Joseph C. Nocos, consultant for EPI, told reporters that the company wants to focus first on its existing pipeline of solar projects and make them more viable and economic by integrating battery energy storage systems.

Nocos explained that energy storage projects can extend power delivery and help address the intermittency of solar plants, which depend on sunlight for generation. "I think you'll see more and more players shifting to renewable energy because that's what the country needs. And aside from geothermal and hydro, the only way you can produce electricity reliably, in a sustained way, is through solar and battery," Nocos said.

Future Development Exploration

The company is also exploring the development of a hydropower project in Isabela and Davao Oriental, according to Nocos. This exploration represents EPI's continued expansion into various renewable energy technologies beyond its current solar and battery storage focus.

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