The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has signed a microgrid service contract with the National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR) to deliver round-the-clock electricity to Cagbalete Island in Mauban, Quezon. The agreement, finalized on December 4, 2025, follows the Department of Energy’s approval of Meralco’s microgrid proposal. The project will receive subsidies through the Universal Charge for Missionary Electrification.
The initiative is being carried out in coordination with the DOE and Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) under the Microgrid Systems Act. The ERC will set the final power rates to keep electricity affordable for island residents and businesses.
NAPOCOR president and CEO Jericho Nograles commended Meralco for taking on the major responsibilities of designing, building, operating, and maintaining the microgrid, which is expected to deliver reliable electricity to all current and future households.
Once completed in the next three years, the Cagbalete Microgrid will be the largest in the Philippines. It will include a 2.8-MWp solar farm, a 6.69-MWh battery system, and diesel backup generators. The hybrid system is designed to supply 24/7 power to more than 1,000 homes, businesses, and essential facilities.
Set to begin operations this December, the project aims to electrify all households on the island and cut as much as 42,000 metric tons of carbon emissions through the use of renewable energy.
Meralco executive vice president and COO Ronnie Aperocho said the project highlights the company’s commitment to expanding sustainable energy access. He added that reliable power will improve the quality of life for Cagbalete residents and help bring “a brighter Christmas” to the community.
