Engineering consultancy SMEC has been appointed as Owner’s Engineer for Phase 2 of the 600MW Wawa pumped storage hydropower project in Rizal Province, Philippines. The project, led by Olympia Violago Water & Power, Inc. (OVWPI), a subsidiary of Prime Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (Prime Infra), is part of the country’s plan to triple its renewable energy capacity by 2030.
The Wawa project, with an estimated investment of US$2.57 billion, will be capable of storing up to 6,000MWh of energy daily. It is intended to supply mid-merit and peak power to the Luzon grid, reduce reliance on fossil-fuel generation, and improve grid flexibility.
Phase 2 construction will include dams, an upper reservoir, an underground powerhouse, tunnel water conveyance systems, and a switchyard. SMEC’s responsibilities will cover project management, construction supervision, design reviews, contractual documentation, stakeholder coordination, and compliance monitoring.
SMEC was also involved in Phase 1 of the project, where it provided technical reviews and supervised works such as the lower inlet/outlet, gate shaft, and part of the tailrace tunnel.
“In delivering this project, we’re not just building infrastructure – we’re helping shape the future of clean energy in the Philippines,” said Gabriel Zamudio Jr., SMEC Vice President and Regional Lead, Dams & Hydropower – Philippines.
“Phase 2 of Wawa PSP pushes the boundaries of pumped hydropower engineering,” said Punitha Rajan Doraisamy, SMEC Regional Director, Dams & Hydropower ASEAN & Pacific. “Through precision engineering and adaptive oversight, we’re delivering a solution that supports peak demand and grid flexibility on a national scale.”
The Wawa pumped storage project is recognised as an energy project of national significance. Once completed, it is expected to enhance the stability of the Luzon grid and support the integration of renewable energy sources.
