LOPEZ-LED First Gen is expanding its clean energy presence in Northern Mindanao, advancing four run-of-river hydroelectric projects with a combined capacity of 113 megawatts (MW).
First Gen announced the development during the First Gen Renewables Media Academy with members of the media on Aug. 5 at Seda Abreeza Hotel here.
The portfolio includes one existing plant and three upcoming facilities across the region.
The 1.6 MW Agusan mini-hydro facility is a small-scale run-of-river currently operational in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, which taps water from Agusan River.
Meanwhile, the San Isidro Hydroelectric Project, positioned on the border of Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro City, has recently secured a key endorsement from the Cagayan de Oro City Council.
The planned commissioning for this 39 MW hydro project is set for 2030.
The 32 MW Bubunawan Hydroelectric Project, located in Libong, Bukidnon, is entering early development stages with target commissioning slated for 2031.
Additionally, the 42 MW Puyo Hydroelectric Project remains in the regulatory compliance and pre-development phase.
First Gen explained that run-of-river hydroelectric facilities divert a portion of a river’s natural flow through turbines to generate electricity before returning the water downstream.
Unlike traditional reservoir-based hydropower plants, these run-of-river designs do not require large dams or water storage impoundments, serving as a natural mechanism to help manage river water surges in nearby areas.
Each megawatt of installed capacity generates enough electricity to power an estimated 500 to 1,000 standard households, depending on average residential consumption rates.
Once fully operational, the total 113 MW pipeline will significantly increase renewable energy contributions to the Mindanao grid.
