Norwegian interest highlights new opportunities for hydro, solar, floating solar, wind, and offshore wind projects in Mindanao
The pioneering hydro power plant complex near Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City. MindaNews file photo
Mindanao continues to position itself as one of the Philippines’ most promising regions for renewable energy development.
During the EFTA-Mindanao Dialogue: Maximizing Opportunities in the Regional Growth Corridor of Southern Mindanao held in Davao City, Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Christian Halaas Lyster said Mindanao has strong potential for renewable energy projects, especially in hydro, solar, floating solar, wind, and offshore wind.
The ambassador pointed out that Norway has long experience in renewable power, especially hydropower, with a large part of its electricity supply coming from hydro sources. He also noted that Norwegian companies are active in solar, floating solar, wind, and offshore wind technologies, which could be relevant to Mindanao’s natural resources and future energy needs.
This statement is important because Mindanao has long been known for its rich natural resources, growing industries, agricultural base, and strategic location. With increasing power demand and the global shift away from fossil fuels, renewable energy can become one of the region’s strongest investment and development sectors.
Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Christian Halaas Lyster speaks
to reporters at Seda Abreeza in Davao City. MindaNews photo by ANTONIO
L. COLINA IV
According to the Mindanao Development Authority, the Mindanao grid is currently composed of 69% non-renewable power and 31% renewable energy. This shows that there is still a large opportunity to expand cleaner energy sources across the island.
For investors and developers, Mindanao offers several possible renewable energy directions:
Hydropower remains a strong opportunity because of Mindanao’s river systems and existing history with hydroelectric power.
Solar energy can support commercial, industrial, agricultural, and off-grid areas, especially in provinces with strong sunlight exposure.
Floating solar may be explored in suitable reservoirs, lakes, and water-based sites where land use is a concern.
Wind and offshore wind can become future opportunities for coastal and island areas, especially as technology becomes more accessible.
The article also highlights that renewable energy is part of the Mindanao Agenda 2023–2028, particularly under the water-energy-food nexus, which connects power development with agriculture, clean water, sustainability, and socio-economic growth.
For Mindanao, renewable energy is not only about electricity. It is also about attracting foreign investors, supporting industrial growth, lowering long-term energy risks, and creating sustainable development opportunities for local communities.
As more international groups look at the Philippines for clean energy investments, Mindanao has the chance to position itself as a serious renewable energy corridor, especially if government agencies, local businesses, foreign technology providers, and project developers work together.