Sagay City signs PHP 4 million deal for hydropower study

BACOLOD CITY — Sagay City has taken a major step toward renewable energy development with the signing of a PHP 4 million consultancy agreement with Meadowland Developers Inc. for the update and upgrade of the Himogaan River Mini-Hydropower Project feasibility study.

Mayor Leo Rafael M. Cueva signed the memorandum of agreement on behalf of the city, while MDI was represented by its president and CEO Michael R. Cañete and Head of Design and Planning Aldren Gutang.

The eight-month consultancy aims to validate and build on the original 2014 feasibility study, which projected a 4.0-megawatt capacity.

It will also assess the potential to increase the plant’s capacity for higher power output and profitability.

The updated study will include topographic and hydrological surveys, flood flow analysis, hydraulic and structural design reviews, and revised cost estimates and financial projections.

These enhancements are required to meet the Department of Energy’s standards for final approval and implementation.

Mayor Cueva welcomed the partnership as a significant move toward securing Sagay’s clean energy future and maximizing the Himogaan River’s potential.

“It is our responsibility to pursue projects that not only address the city’s energy needs but also contribute to environmental protection and long-term economic growth,” he said.

The Himogaan River project was first granted a Hydropower Service Contract by the DOE in 2014 but has since experienced delays in implementation.

Through this renewed effort, the city hopes to move closer to the construction and operation of a mini-hydropower facility that can deliver both clean energy and economic gains to Sagaynons.

Also present during the signing were Vice Mayor Narciso L. Javelosa Jr., City Administrator Engr. Rodnel de los Reyes, Economic and Enterprise Management Office Head Atty. Ryan Bonghanoy, City Engineer Jezreel Alingco, and City Planning and Development Office representative Edward Balinario.