Geothermal Energy Exploration and Development in the Philippines After 35 Years

Abstract

Some 35 years after officially embarking on the development of its geothermal resources, the Philippines boasts of 1,921 MWe of total installed geothermal capacity, the second largest in the world. Geothermal energy has contributed >172,000 GWh to the electricity supply of the Philippines thus saving >US$7 billion in foreign exchange. In the works are the Northern Negros and Nasulo geothermal projects that would add another 60 MWe of capacity to the grid. The vision of the Philippine Government to significantly increase the current generating capacity from renewable energy sources over the next 10 years bodes well given the increasing oil prices. However, as in other countries, there are emerging legal, political and social challenges that need to be hurdled and resolved to realize this vision.