Filipino Energy Secretary, Vincent Perez, confirmed, "Ten prospective areas for expansion of existing geothermal fields and exploration and development of new projects will be offered to interested investors."
"These areas were painstakingly and prudently selected based on technical, environmental and legal merits," added Perez who reiterated that it was part of the Philippines' long-term objective to become "the world leader in geothermal energy development".
"At least six companies have already expressed interest to take part in the geothermal bidding round," said Perez, who declined to name the six companies.
According to the numbers published by the Philippines Energy Department, the 10 fields are capable of generating as much as 300 mW to 470 mW in additional capacity. The fields are located in Manito-Bayabon and Rangas-Tanawon (Sorsogon), Biliran (Eastern Visayas), Amacan (North Davao), Dauin (Negros Occidental), Natib (Bataan), Mabini (Batangas), Montelago (Oriental Mindoro) and Mt Kabalian (Leyte).
All interested firms have until 30 July to submit their bids and will have the five months to evaluate the geothermal potential of the areas in question.
