Atimonan coal plant hits major roadblocks in re-approval bid

By Nimfa L. Estrellado The Department of Energy (DOE) building in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Manila. (DOE) ATIMONAN, Quezon – The p...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

The Department of Energy (DOE) building in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Manila. (DOE)

ATIMONAN, Quezon – The proposed 1,200-megawatt (MW) Atimonan coal-fired power plant is facing an uphill battle for re-approval, not just due to regulatory hurdles but also as a litmus test for the Philippines' increasingly firm commitment to renewable energy and competitive energy markets. The project's re-evaluation by Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGen) is under intense scrutiny, particularly from the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC).

This heightened examination follows the DOE's decision to retract its initial approval for the Atimonan project earlier this year. This move is particularly notable given that the plant had previously secured an exemption from the government's coal moratorium, which aims to curtail new coal projects and champion renewable energy sources. The re-evaluation signals a more stringent interpretation of exemptions and a reinforced commitment to the moratorium's intent.



The Philippines has set ambitious renewable energy targets, aiming to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040. The current administration has emphasized energy security and affordability, but also the crucial role of a diversified and sustainable energy portfolio. The Atimonan project, a large-scale coal endeavor, now stands in stark contrast to these evolving national priorities.

Adding to the complexity are the long-standing environmental concerns and local opposition that have plagued the Atimonan plant for years. Residents and environmental groups in Quezon Province have consistently voiced their objections, citing potential negative impacts on public health, livelihoods, and the environment. Recent protests in June 2025 marked a decade of community resistance, reinforcing the call for a "coal-free Atimonan" and urging the DOE to permanently terminate the project.

Meanwhile, MGen itself has been actively expanding its renewable energy portfolio, a clear indication of the industry's shift. The company recently inaugurated 152.7 MW of solar projects across Luzon in the first quarter of 2025 and is on track to surpass its goal of 1,500 MW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. Their flagship MTerra Solar Project, set to become one of the world's largest integrated solar and battery storage facilities, further highlights their investment in cleaner alternatives. 

The Atimonan plant's struggle for re-approval highlights a significant shift in the national energy landscape. While MGen President Emmanuel Rubio still eyes a late 2029 or early 2030 operational start if re-instated, the company is also publicly outlining a long-term strategy to phase out coal by 2050, exploring alternatives like ammonia co-firing. This pivot by a major power generator underscores the growing pressure and policy direction towards cleaner energy.