Solar Phils to build USD 1-B solar panel factory in Batangas
By Juzel L. Danganan
MANILA, June 1 (PNA) -- Solar Philippines will build a USD 1-billion solar panel manufacturing facility in Tanuan, Batangas with a potential capacity of 2 gigawatts.
Solar Philippines said in a statement Wednesday the first phase will be operational by the year-end, while the facility will be completed in three years. It will start building the facility in the third quarter of 2016.
The power firm disclosed it started the procurement process for manufacturing equipment.
The Leviste-led company pointed out it would use German technology in producing efficient solar panels at the low costs. The facility has a potential capacity of 2 gigawatts.
“Increasingly, solar manufacturing is moving from China to Southeast Asia, and we believe that the Philippines can lead that trend. Filipinos are among the best workers in the world, and the large local solar market can add to the demand for otherwise export-only factories,†Solar Philippines president Leandro Leviste said.
He further explained the company aims to lower panel prices, control the supply chain and support the incoming administration's agenda in manufacturing.
“This is the key step towards lowering solar costs, enabling us to produce electricity cheaper than coal. Instead of importing expensive fuel from other countries, we will manufacture here in the Philippines. Soon enough, our country can become the Saudi Arabia of solar, a leading energy exporter, and Made in the Philippines panels will be used around the world,†Leviste said.
Solar Philippines also said seven foreign solar manufacturers have expressed interest to partner in the project.
The company expects a minimum order of 500 megawatts by the middle of 2017. It will be initially used for their projects and will later be sold to the US and Europe.
Solar Philippines is engaged with project development, financing and construction in the country. (PNA)
RMA/JLD
Linkback:
https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=86016.0