DENR backs P4-B waste-to-energy facility in Clark, BCDA says

THE Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said it has obtained the support of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to develop a P4-billion waste-to-energy (WTE) facility in New Clark City in Tarlac, amid a push to reduce landfill waste.

In a statement on Monday, the BCDA said the two agencies, along with its project consortium and representatives from the academe, held a consultation on Feb. 20 to discuss the project.

The facility will have a capacity of 12 megawatts and can process up to 600 metric tons of municipal solid waste per day, the BCDA said.

It seeks to cut waste volume by up to 90% through controlled thermal treatment.

“This approach addresses long-term landfill scarcity while providing a structured and environmentally managed disposal system for local government units,” BCDA said.

It will be equipped with state-of-the-art air pollution control and flue gas treatment systems. The facility will generate multiple outputs, including clean electricity for 10,000 households in Clark and nearby areas.

The plant will be designed to comply with global environmental standards, similar to WTE facilities in Japan, Sweden, Germany, China, and Singapore.

The facility is also expected to generate over 300 jobs during its two-year construction phase and provide employment for its projected operational lifespan of 25 years.

Citing the DENR, BCDA noted that modern WTE systems can form part of a science-based and responsible solid waste management framework.

The project “demonstrates how infrastructure development can deliver long-term environmental and economic value for the country,” BCDA President Joshua M. Bingcang said.

This also aligns with the need for increased environmental protection, energy security, clean energy use, and sustainable urban development nationwide, it said.

Energy Undersecretary Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo earlier said the project would help the country meet its renewable energy targets.

The Philippines aims to increase renewable energy in the national power mix to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz