Citicore Power kicks off hydro project in Isabela

MANILA, Philippines — A unit of renewable energy developer Citicore Power Inc. (CPI) has forged an agreement with local government units (LGUs) to kick-off the development of a 19.7-megawatt (MW) run-of-river hydropower project in Isabela.

Rio Norte Hydropower Corp. (RNHC)  signed a memorandum of agreement with local officials of Isabela Province and Echague municipality for the hydropower project along the Ilaguen River in the province.

Echague municipal Mayor Francis Dy said the power facility is a welcome development since it “is expected to bring down the cost of electricity” and “generate a host of beneficial programs” to the municipality.

Located in Barangay San Miguel, Echague, RNHC’s hydro project is expected to supply 85 million kilowatts of energy per year to the cities of Cauayan and Santiago including the municipalities of Alicia, Angadanan, Cabatuan, Cordon, Echague, Jones, Luna, Ramon, Reina Mercedes, San Agustin, San Guillermo, San Isidro and San Mateo.

RNHC vice president for legal and government affairs Clarence Jandoc said the run-of-river power generation is considered one of the most environment-friendly energy methods available as it harnesses the natural flow of water to generate electricity.

“It produces nearly no greenhouse emissions,” he said.

The company is also undertaking the development of an eco-tourism road and several community programs in the area.

“We are also launching various social development programs in Echague to bring about sustainable livelihood and educational opportunities for the residents,” he said.

Jandoc said the project was in line with ithe company’s commitment to inclusive growth.