C. Ahunan Project Description For Scoping

1400MW Ahunan
Pumped-Storage Hydropower
Plant Project
Project Description for Scoping (PDS)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION FOR SCOPING
1400MW Ahunan Pumped-Storage Hydropower Project
Pakil, Laguna
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................................... 2
List of Tables .................................................................................................................................................. 3
List of Figures ................................................................................................................................................. 3
Annexes .......................................................................................................................................................... 3
PROJECT DESCRIPTION FOR SCOPING ....................................................................................................... 4
1.0 Project Fact Sheet ................................................................................................................................ 4
1.1 Project Overview .............................................................................................................................. 5
2.0 Project Description ................................................................................................................................ 5
2.1 Project Location and Area ................................................................................................................. 5
2.2 Project Impact Area .......................................................................................................................... 5
2.3 Shapefile Configuration ..................................................................................................................... 8
2.4 Project Site Accessibility ................................................................................................................... 8
3.0 Project Rationale .................................................................................................................................. 9
3.1 Project Need at the National Level .................................................................................................... 9
3.2 Project Need at the Regional Level.................................................................................................... 9
4.0 Project Alternatives ............................................................................................................................. 10
4.1 Siting .............................................................................................................................................. 10
4.2 Technology/Design Selection .......................................................................................................... 10
4.3 Resources ...................................................................................................................................... 11
4.4 Environmental Conditions ............................................................................................................... 11
4.5 Summary of Project Alternatives...................................................................................................... 11
4 .4 No Project Option .......................................................................................................................... 12
5.0 Project Components............................................................................................................................ 12
5.1 General Layout of Facilities ............................................................................................................. 12
5.2 Main Project Components ............................................................................................................... 14
5.2.1 Access Road ........................................................................................................................... 14
5.2.2 Upper Basin ............................................................................................................................ 14
5.2.3 Power Waterway ..................................................................................................................... 16
5.2.4 Surge Facilities ........................................................................................................................ 16
5.2.5 Inlet/Outlet Structures .............................................................................................................. 16
5.2.6 Cavern Powerhouses............................................................................................................... 19
6.0 Process Description ............................................................................................................................ 19
7.0 Project Size ........................................................................................................................................ 20
8.0 Development Plan and Description of Project Phases .......................................................................... 20
8.1 Project Timeline .............................................................................................................................. 20
8.2 Project Phases ............................................................................................................................... 21
8.2.1 Development and Pre-Construction ........................................................................................ 21
Project Description for Scoping 2

Pakil, Laguna
8.2.2 Construction Phase ............................................................................................................... 21

8.2.3 Operation Phase........................................................................................................................ 22
8.2.4 Abandonment Phase ............................................................................................................. 22
9.0 Manpower........................................................................................................................................... 22
10.0 Project Cost ...................................................................................................................................... 22
11.0 Major Environmental Impacts and Management Measures ................................................................. 22
12.0 Pre-scoping Activities ........................................................................................................................ 24
List of Tables
Table PDS-1. Proposed Location of the Main Structures (Coordinate Reference System: PRS 92) ..................... 8
Table PDS-2. Project Area Coordinates as Indicated in the RESC (Coordinate Reference System: PRS 92) ....... 8
Table PDS-3. Hazard Assessment of the Project Site ...................................................................................... 11
Table PDS-4. Summary of Project Alternatives ................................................................................................ 11
Table PDS-5. Basic Design Parameters of the Upper Basin ............................................................................. 11
Table PDS-6.Main Dimensions of the Upper Basin .......................................................................................... 14
Table PDS-7. Main Dimensions of each Powerhouse Complex ........................................................................ 19
Table PDS-8. Construction Phase Activities..................................................................................................... 21
Table PDS-9. Predicted Environmental Impacts and Management Measures ................................................... 22
List of Figures
Figure PDS-1. Project Location Map.................................................................................................................. 6
Figure PDS-2. Project Impact Area Map ............................................................................................................ 7
Figure PDS-3. General Layout of Facilities ...................................................................................................... 13
Figure PDS-4. Cross-Section Layout of the Upper Basin .................................................................................. 15
Figure PDS-5. Longitudinal Section of the Power Waterway (Stage 1) .............................................................. 17
Figure PDS-6. Longitudinal Section of the Power Waterway (Stage 2) .............................................................. 18
Figure PDS-7. Schematic Diagram of Electrical Energy Flow ........................................................................... 20
Figure PDS-8. Project Timeline ....................................................................................................................... 20
Annexes
Annex A Aerial Photo of the Project Site
Annex B Ahunan Power, Inc. – SEC Certificate
Annex C Ahunan Power, Inc. – Amended General Information Sheet (GIS)
Annex D Certificate of No Objection (CNO)

Pakil, Laguna
1.0 PROJECT FACT SHEET

Name of Project 1400MW Ahunan Pumped-Storage Hydropower Project
Province Municipality Barangay
Baño
Project Location Burgos
Laguna Pakil
Rizal
Taft
Project Area 299.40 has.
Nature Type of Project Hydropower Project
Proposed Installed Capacity 1400MW Gross (1200MW Net)
Access Road
Upper Basin
Symmetrical Power Waterway, whereby each stage has the following arrangement:
- Upper Inlet/Outlet Structure
- Upper Gate Shaft
- Headrace Tunnel
- Surge Tant and Pressure Shaft
- High Pressure Tunnel
Summary of Major - Penstocks
Components - Distributors
- Draft Tube Tunnels
- Collector Tunnels
- Tailrace Tunnel
- Tailrace Surge Tunnel
- Lower Gate Shaft
- Lower Inlet/Out Structure
Separate Cavern Powerhouse for Stage 1 and Stage 2
Lower Basin (Laguna Lake)
Technology Hydropower Reversible Pump Turbine
Energy Type Renewable (Non-VRE)
Design Head 490m (between upper basin and Laguna Lake)
Connection Point NGCP/Grid-based
Stage I: 622,100,000 USD
Indicative Project Cost Stage II: 491,900,000 USD
TOTAL 1,114,000,000 USD
Construction Period 4 years
Commercial Operation Date Q1-2027
Proponent Name Ahunan Power, Inc.
Proponent Authorized Mr. Rafael C. Bueno, Jr.
Representative President & CEO
16/F Three E-Com Center
Proponent Address and
Bayshore Drive cor. Ocean Drive, MOA Complex
Contact Details
Pasay City, Philippines
EIA Preparer Aperçu Consultants, Inc.
Lilli Beth S. Yazon
Preparer Contact Person
Managing Director
Unit 307 Philippine Social Science Center
Preparer Address and Commonwealth Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City
Contact Details Telephone Number: +63 2 8929 2778
E-mail Address: bethyazon@apercu.biz

Pakil, Laguna
1.1 PROJECT OVERVIEW

Ahunan Power, Inc., hereinafter referred to as Proponent, was established as a joint venture between two co-
developers, Prime Metro Power Holdings Corporation and JBD Water Power, Inc. It was incorporated on
September 17, 2020, to engage in the development, construction, operation, maintenance, repair, and
management of hydropower plants, other power-generating plants, related facilities, and other allied businesses,
including investing, bidding, and negotiating for such projects (whether as shareholder, partner or otherwise), and
to trade electricity in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market. The developers are embarking on the Ahunan Pumped-
Storage Hydropower Project in the municipality of Pakil, Laguna. The project intends to generate a total gross
capacity of 1400MW to provide primary and tertiary reserve ancillary services, as well as conventional pumped-
storage operation in two separate project stages: Stage I and Stage II. Stage I will generate 700MW net to the
Luzon grid for primary and tertiary reserve ancillary services while Stage II shall be capable of generating 500MW
net for mid-merit services.
2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 PROJECT LOCATION AND AREA

The Ahunan Pumped-Storage Hydropower Project will be located on the east bank of Laguna de Bay in Pakil,
Laguna Province, Region 4A (CALABARZON). It is estimated to cover across 299.40 hectares of land, most of
which is sparsely populated and covered by a mix of medium-sized trees and tall shrubs. The project area covers
four (4) barangays in the municipality of Pakil: Baño, Burgos, Rizal and Taft.
The project location is presented in Figure PDS-1. Aerial photos of the project site are also provided as Annex A.
2.2 PROJECT IMPACT AREA

According to DAO 2003-30 guidelines, the DIA generally refers to areas where the project facilities or
infrastructures are proposed to be constructed/located or traversed such as buildings or structures, irrigation,
drainage and other utility areas, quarry sites, access roads and others to be set up during the construction and
operation phases.
On the other hand, the IIA generally refers to the influential area of the project that could be indirectly affected by
the proposed development. This could include areas in the vicinity of the DIA. Examples of these may include
communities or settlements outside of the DIA which can also be benefited by the employment opportunities
created by the project, sub-tributaries of the river system which can be indirectly affected by project induced
pollution, and/or areas where water sources will be indirectly affected by drawdown in the DIA.
For this project, the Direct Impact Area (DIA) is the area where all project facilities are proposed to be constructed
and operations are proposed to be undertaken.
The barangays where the DIA is located (i.e., where permanent and temporary structures will be located) are
referred to as directly affected barangays. People and households where both permanent and temporary facilities
will be located will be referred to as directly affected persons/households all of whom/which may be subject to
physical/economic resettlement/compensation.
As defined above, the IIA includes the area of influence of the project facilities. For environmental impacts and
benefits, the IIA is considered to cover the land area and receptors in the DIAs’ neighboring barangays that could
be indirectly affected by the project. Figure PDS-2 shows the delineation of the impact areas with respect to the
location of the project components.
Once the EIA study is done, the impact areas will be more technically defined per environ.

Pakil, Laguna
Figure PDS-1. Project Location Map

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Figure PDS-2. Project Impact Area Map

Pakil, Laguna
2.3 SHAPEFILE CONFIGURATION

Table PDS-1 presents the proposed location of the main structures of the project. The project area coordinates
as indicated in the Renewable Energy Service Contract (RESC) with the Department of Energy (DOE) is also
shown in Table PDS-2
Table PDS-1. Proposed Location of the Main Structures (Coordinate Reference System: PRS 92)
Reference Point (Component) Latitude Longitude

Upper Basin 14°23'13.45" N 121°29'34.61" E
Upper Inlet/Outlet Structures 14°22'55.91" N 121°29'27.03" E
Cavern Powerhouse (Stage I) 14°22'41.21" N 121°29'10.67" E
Cavern Powerhouse (Stage 2) 14°22'48.75" N 121°29'08.91" E
Lower Inlet/Outlet Structures 14°22'23.84" N 121°28'25.54" E
Table PDS-2. Area Covered by the Upper Basin (Coordinate Reference System: WGS 84)
Reference
Reference Point
Latitude Longitude Point Latitude Longitude
(Component)
(Component)
Corner 1 14° 23 ' 13" N 121° 30 ' 4" E Corner 12 14° 23 ' 25" N 121° 29 ' 33" E
2.4 PROJECT SITE ACCESSIBILITY

The main access point to the project site is via Metro Manila Skyway and National Highway R-5. The approximate
distance from Metro Manila to the project site is approximately 105 km.
A concrete elevated highway from Metro Manila leads to Calamba Laguna (approx. 45km). From Calamba,
National Highway R-5 (approx. 60 km) leads to the municipality of Pakil, Laguna. Then, the National Highway R-5
exit at V. Rarela St. is about 1.0 km of asphalt/concrete road to the Lower Inlet/Outlet Structures. From there, the
Upper Basin site can be reached via a 1.5 km concrete track.
However, the existing concrete track leading to the Upper Basin does not meet the project needs in terms of width,
slope, and the provision of access throughout the year. As such, the project also includes the establishment of a
new access road, about 6 km long, going to the Upper Basin.

1400MW Ahunan Pumped-Storage Hydropower Plant Project
Pakil, Laguna
3.0 PROJECT RATIONALE

3.1 PROJECT NEED AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL
The project is not only in line with the initiative of the Department of Energy (DOE) to expedite projects that promote
energy security and resilience under the Executive Order 301, but also, as one of national significance, consistent
with the thrusts and goals of the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) 2020-20402.
Peak demand is projected to increase from 15.2GW in 2020 to 54.7GW in 2040 at 6.6% annual increment. Two
scenarios are presented in the PEP 2020-2040 to address the projected power demand: Reference Scenario (REF)
and Clean Energy Scenario (CES). REF aims to have 35% Renewable Energy (RE) share in the power generation
mix by 2040. The CES, on the other hand, is more ambitious, aiming to have 35% RE share in the power generation
mix by 2030, then 50% by 2040.
Installed capacity under REF is planned to increase from 26.2GW in 2020 to 95.7GW in 2040, with 34% coming
solar, 25.4% from natural gas, 16.1% from hydro, 14.2% from coal, and 1 to 5% from oil, geothermal, biomass,
and wind. The target installed capacity under CES in 2040 is 118.6GW, with 81.5GW from the RE sector. Of this,
46.1GW will come solar energy sector, 20.1GW from hydro, and 11.8GW from wind.
As of 2020, the total installed hydropower energy capacity is at 3,779MW or 3.779GW3. This project will contribute
an addition of 1400MW, which will help realize the goal of CES for the hydropower energy sector.
Further, the use of fossil fuels (e.g., oil, coal, natural gas) is expected to decrease with the increase in utilization
of RE sources, resulting to lesser greenhouse gas (GHG) emission.
Thus, RE projects including hydropower energy plays an essential part in the Philippine government’s strategy in
addressing the challenges of climate change, energy security and access to clean energy.
3.2 PROJECT NEED AT THE REGIONAL LEVEL

The project will bring benefits to the host municipality and barangay including:
▪ Improve grid security through flexible energy generation that can be used to manage the Ancillary or
Reserve requirements of the grid to regulate frequency and stabilize generation fluctuations.
Furthermore, this will ensure that power interruptions are minimized, if not eliminated;
▪ Increased energy security due to the additional peak generation of 1400MW which could support 325,000
to 1,850,000 households (average consumption of 200kWh/month) at a lower electricity rate impact to
consumers;
▪ Local project funding paid for by DOE’s ER 1-94 benefits, where 1 centavo for each kWh of power
generated by the project is deposited with the DOE for use by the host communities for local projects
that meet the criteria set out by the DOE for those ER 1-94 funds, i.e., Electrification Fund, Development
and Livelihood Fund, Reforestation/Watershed Management Fund, and Health and Environmental
Enhancement Fund;
▪ In compliance to the Energy Efficiency Law, unutilized capacities from conventional and renewable
generation will be stored during off-peak hours and will be delivered during peak hours or when the
demand is relatively higher;
▪ Additional income to the host municipality and province through the increased share in the Internal
Revenue Allocation, as a result of the added collection of business and property taxes from permits and
clearances as well as corporate income tax;
1 https://www.doe.gov.ph/eicc/executive-order-no-30
2 https://www.doe.gov.ph/pep?ckattempt=1
3 https://www.doe.gov.ph/sites/default/files/pdf/electric_power/2020_power-situation-report_as_of_09-september-2021.pdf

Pakil, Laguna
▪ Increased opportunity for employment of qualified residents during the construction stage and long-term
employment to qualified residents during the operation phase; and
▪ The establishment of new businesses and industries, such as tourism, that will stimulate local economy
and generate indirect employment.
4.0 PROJECT ALTERNATIVES
4.1 SITING
The Municipality of Pakil was chosen as project site based on its topography and proximity to the water source
(Laguna Lake). A pumped-storage system requires an upper storage reservoir and a lower reservoir, both of
suitable volume. The Laguna Lake, which will serve as the project’s lower reservoir, is capable of providing
sufficient water source for energy generation while the location of the upper basin is highly elevated reaching up
to 500m ASL, as well as naturally saddled lands to form the reservoir.
The Ahunan Pumped-Storage Hydropower Project is designed to be executable in two stages with symmetrical
underground Power Waterways and Cavern Powerhouses connecting an artificial Upper Basin and the lower
Laguna de Bay. The layout of the scheme is to a large extent chosen by fitting into an existing terrain while also
satisfying land acquisition aspects and other constraints such as city borders and the impact of the towers of the
500kV transmission line.
Further, a site visit was conducted to observe the condition of the proposed project site. The vegetation in the
project area mostly consists of medium size fruit trees and tall shrubs. Anthropogenic activities in the location of
the upper basin are generally low due to difficulty in access caused by the area’s very steep topography. Kaingin
activities is most prevalent in the elevated areas along with small-scale farming and copra production. Local
villagers also described the weather in the area as rainy for most of the year with dry season only lasting for two
to three months—either during December to February or March to May.
No other sites alternatives were studies for this project.
4.2 TECHNOLOGY/DESIGN SELECTION

Pumped-storage hydroelectricity refers to a type of hydroelectric energy storage used by electric power systems
for load balancing. This method stores energy in the form of gravitational potential energy of water, pumped from
a lower elevation reservoir to a higher elevation. Low-cost off-peak electric power is used to run the pumps. During
periods of high electrical demand, the stored water is released through turbines to produce electric power.
The pumped-storage scheme is the largest capacity form of grid energy storage available.
The main requirement for a pumped-storage scheme is the special nature of the site, needing both geographical
height and water availability. Suitable sites are therefore likely to be on hilly or mountainous regions.
The proposed Ahunan Pumped-Storage Hydropower Project will store energy in the form of water in the upper
reservoir. Water will then be pumped from the Laguna Lake (lower reservoir) which is located at lower elevation.
During periods of high electricity demand (i.e., daytime), power will be generated by releasing the stored water
through turbines in the same manner as a conventional hydropower station. During periods of low demand (i.e.,
nighttime), the upper reservoir will be recharged by using lower-cost electricity from the grid to pump the water
back to the upper reservoir.

Pakil, Laguna
4.3 RESOURCES
Environmental pollution and GHG emission from the combustion of fossil fuels constitute a threat to the
environment. The use of fossil fuels is reportedly responsible for 70% of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide.
The climate change challenge needs to include a shift in the way that energy is generated and consumed.
RE comes from resources that are naturally replenished such as wind, solar, hydro, tidal, geothermal, and biomass.
It is often regarded as clean energy because it has none to minimal GHG emission unlike those originating from
fossil fuels namely oil, coal, and natural gas.
The proposed project will adopt proven hydropower technology which will make use of available natural resources
(i.e., water, geology, and topography) to store energy and generate electricity. Its main use of resources is the
utilization of water from the Laguna Lake which is estimated to cause a water level change of less than 0.5 cm.
4.4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

The assessment of vulnerability/susceptibility of the project site to environmental hazards is described in Table
PDS-3.
Table PDS-3. Hazard Assessment of the Project Site
Hazard Assessment
Seismicity The project is located in a region characterized by moderate to high seismicity. Active
faults and subduction zones within a 150-km radius of the site includes: East Luzon
Trough, Philippine Fault Zone, Lubang Fault and West Valley Fault.
Hydrological Risks The project does not rely on natural inflow to either of its basins and is not susceptible
to flooding from nearby rivers.
Larger typhoons have, however, been known to cause flooding in floodplains along the
shores of Laguna de Bay.
Landslides Given the local topography, mapped risk of landslides is high. This, however, still needs
to be verified via geological field mapping.
4.5 SUMMARY OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES

Table PDS-4 summarizes the project alternatives in terms of siting, technology/design, resources, and
environmental conditions.
Table PDS-4. Summary of Project Alternatives
Aspect Alternatives
Siting The Municipality of Pakil was chosen as project site because of its natural topography
and proximity to a reliable water source (Laguna Lake).
Technology/Design The proposed project will utilize a reversible pumped-storage system to generate
energy. Water will be pumped from the Laguna Lake (lower reservoir) which is located
at lower elevation to the upper reservoir where energy will be stored.
Resources The proposed project will adopt proven hydropower technology which will make use of
available natural resources (i.e., water, geology, and topography) to store energy and
generate electricity. Its main use of resources is the utilization of water from the Laguna
Lake which is estimated to cause a water level change of less than 0.5 cm.
Environmental Conditions The project is located in a region characterized by moderate to high seismicity. It is not
dependent on natural inflow, hence, not susceptible to flooding from nearby rivers.

Pakil, Laguna
However, larger typhoons may cause flooding in the floodplains along Laguna de Bay.
Mapped risk of landslides is also high, but needs to be verified.
4 .4 NO PROJECT OPTION
As mentioned above, this project will help achieve the goal of Clean Energy Scenario (CES) under PEP 2020-2040
of supplying additional energy from renewable sources as part of DOE’s plan in addressing the challenges of
climate change, energy security and access to clean energy. The opportunity of having an additional 1400MW
clean, sustainable, and reliable energy source will be put to waste if this project will not push through.
Furthermore, without the project, the project benefits mentioned in Section 3.2 that the host local government unit
(LGU) and barangays stand to gain will not be realized.
5.0 PROJECT COMPONENTS
5.1 GENERAL LAYOUT OF FACILITIES

The project will be built across 299.40 hectares of land. The Ahunan Pumped-Storage Hydropower Plant Project
is designed to be executable in two stages with symmetrical underground Power Waterways and Cavern
Powerhouses connecting an artificial Upper Basin and the lower Laguna de Bay. Stage I will generate 700MW net
to the Luzon grid for primary and tertiary reserve ancillary services while Stage II shall be capable of generating
500MW net for mid-merit services. The layout of the scheme is to a larger extent chosen by fitting into the existing
terrain while also satisfying land acquisition aspects and other constraints such as municipal borders and the
impact of the towers 500kV transmission line.
The project comprises of the following main components:

▪ Access Road
▪ Upper Basin
▪ Symmetrical Power Waterway, whereby each stage has the following arrangement:
o Upper Inlet/Outlet Structure
o Upper Gate Shaft
o Headrace Tunnel
o Surge Tank and Pressure Shaft
o High Pressure Tunnel
o Penstocks
o Distributors
o Draft Tube Tunnels
o Collector Tunnels
o Tailrace Tunnel
o Tailrace Surge Tunnel
o Lower Gate Shaft
o Lower Inlet/Outlet Structure
▪ Separate Cavern Powerhouse for each stage
▪ Laguna Channel
Figure PDS-3 presents the general layout of facilities.

Pakil, Laguna
Figure PDS-3. General Layout of Facilities

Pakil, Laguna
5.2 MAIN PROJECT COMPONENTS
5.2.1 ACCESS ROAD
New access roads from Pakil to the Upper Basin as well as to the top of the Surge Tanks are to be established.
Due to the encountered heavy rainfalls during the rainy season, the access roads will have to be paved (asphalt
or concrete). The typical cross section is also designed to accommodate two-way truck traffic to serve as the
main access during all excavation and construction works. Furthermore, it is also assumed that material balance
will be carried in the next phase and that excavated materials from the Cavern Powerhouse and the Laguna
Channel will be used to construct the dams of the Upper Basin to the extent possible. As such, the new access
roads will also be used for the transport of such materials.
5.2.2 UPPER BASIN
The Upper Basin is designed as an artificial pond with a live storage of 13.6 million m3. The geometry of the Upper
Basin has been chosen to fit into the existing terrain while also minimizing impact on the existing 500 kV
transmission line and its towers as well as to fulfill the constraint due to land acquisition aspects. The dam forming
the Upper Basin will be constructed as a geomembrane faced earth fill dam (GFED) conservatively designed to
maximize the use of material available from excavation from other project features. The slopes and basic design
parameters of the Upper Basin is shown in Table PDS-5 below.
Table PDS-5. Basic Design Parameters of the Upper Basin
Design Parameter Value

Upstream slope (v:h) 1:2.5
Downstream slope (v:h) 1:2.5
Crest width 7.0 m
Normal Freeboard 2.0 m
A bottom outlet will also be constructed on the eastern side of the Upper basin and will consist of a vertical intake
equipped with trash racks, a steel pipe embedded in conventional concrete in a trench passing through the dam
foundation, and a control valve (Howell-Bunger valve) and a butterfly valve to act as the emergency (guard) device
for maintenance purposes. The maximum discharge from the outlet will be limited to 8m 3/s to prevent the
downstream gully from being flooded with a large discharge.
Moreover, to be safe against overtopping for all usual and unusual conditions, the Upper Basin is designed with
2.0 m freeboard from the Full Supply Level (FSL) to the dam crest and equipped with an un-gated overflow spillway
in case of over pumping.
Lastly, the corresponding salient features of the Upper Basin is shown in Table PDS-6 while the cross-section
layout is shown in Figure PDS-4.
Table PDS-6. Main Dimensions of the Upper Basin

Parameter Dimension
Dam crest elevation 432.00 m ASL
Top of parapet wall 436.66 m ASL
Full supply level 430.00 m ASL
Minimum operation level 396.50 m ASL
Active reservoir storage 13.6 million m3
Reservoir length ~1,170 m
(dam crest to dam crest, north to south)
Reservoir width ~970 m
(dam crest to dam crest, east to west)

Pakil, Laguna
Figure PDS-4. Cross-Section Layout of the Upper Basin

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5.2.3 POWER WATERWAY
The main objective of the power waterway is to connect the upper and lower reservoir with the powerhouse. The
total length of the Power Waterway for each stage, measured from the Upper Basin to Laguna de Bay amounts to
approximately 2.0 km. Its alignment is designed considering the topographic conditions as well as the limited
information currently available with regards to the site’s geology. All sections of the Power Waterway will be
pressurized and fully lined. Concrete lining will be established, while a steel lining will also be used where hydraulic
confinement criteria cannot be achieved or where a certain hydraulic gradient between the Power Waterway and
an underground cavity needs to be considered.
Furthermore, hydraulic losses are also determined for both friction and minor losses. For friction losses, roughness
assumptions constituted of the Nikuradse roughness of 1 mm for concrete lining and 0.05 mm are applied for steel
sections. Minor losses, on the other hand, consists mainly of bend losses and losses at the bifurcations, intakes,
transitions, etc. The head losses at rated condition and discharge are calculated at 4.0 m to 6.0 for Stage I and 4.0
m and 10.1 m for Stage 2 Power Waterway in pumping and turbine mode, respectively.
The longitudinal section of Power Waterway for both Stages 1 and 2 are shown in Figure PDS-5 and Figure
PDS-6, respectively.
5.2.4 SURGE FACILITIES
Surge facilities are generally introduced to the power waterway to offer a free water surface for the reflection of
water hammer and to reduce inertia, which results to shorter changeover times as well prevents both negative and
extreme internal pressures during transient load conditions.
A preliminary transient analysis has been performed which indicates that surge facilities will be required in both
the headrace and tailrace section of both Power Waterways to enable sufficiently short turbine opening and closing
times as it is required for a modern pumped-storage plant. These surge facilities would also add to the operation
flexibility particularly in complex load cases such as fast load changes in short period of time. There is, however,
some optimization potential as the length of the headrace Power Waterway is on the threshold of the requirement
for surge facilities.
5.2.5 INLET/OUTLET STRUCTURES
The purpose of the Inlet/Outlet Structures is to provide a hydraulically shaped transition for the flow between the
trash rack opening and the internal diameter of the Power Waterways. The main objective is to minimize
expansion losses, which is facilitated by designing the Inlet/Outlet Structures as Diffusers when they discharge
flow into their respective basins.
5.2.5.1 UPPER INLET/OUTLET STRUCTURES AND UPPER GATE SHAFTS
A conventional horizontal intake is selected for the Upper Inlet/Outlet Structures. Additionally, the present concept
envisages periodically isolating the headrace tunnel of each Power Waterway from the Upper basin for routine
inspection and maintenance.
The Upper Gate Shaft of each Power Waterway will be divided into a sliding gate well and a stoplogs well. The
sliding gate well will also be used for the purpose of aeration while the gate is operating. The wall between these
shafts is designed to resist the full water pressure in order to allow the isolation of these shafts. The operation
platform would be large enough to have sufficient space for operating the gates and stoplogs.
Trash rack panels will also be provided for the Upper Inlet/Outlet Structures to prevent any debris from entering
the hydraulic system.

Pakil, Laguna
Figure PDS-5. Longitudinal Section of Power Waterway (Stage I)

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Figure PDS-6. Longitudinal Section of Power Waterway (Stage 2)

Pakil, Laguna
5.2.5.2 LOWER INLET/OUTLET STRUCTURES, LOWER GATE SHAFTS , AND LAGUNA CHANNEL
For safety reasons and in order to protect the pump-turbine units from floating debris, the Lower Inlet/Outlet
Structures will also be provided with trash racks and will be equipped with shut-off and isolation devices. Moreover,
the depth of the water above the Lower Inlet/Outlet Structures’ opening would be considered sufficient to prevent
air (vortices) from entering the pressure tunnels even at the lowest operating level.
The Lower Gate Shaft will be divided into a sliding gate well and a stoplogs well. The sliding gate well will also be
used for the purpose of aeration while the gate is operating. Meanwhile, the Lower Inlet/Outlet Structures’ closing
devices are foreseen in a gate chamber.
5.2.6 CAVERN POWERHOUSES
The Cavern Powerhouses are located close to the lower reservoir approximately 1300 m upstream from the Lower
Inlet/Outlet Structures. The powerhouse complex comprises of a power cavern and a transformer cavern for each
stage, as well as the required bus duct and access tunnels. The whole scheme is designed in such a way that the
stage wise planned capacity can be implemented for each stage separately. For this reason, the Main Access
Tunnel (MAT) consists of a common stretch from the portal onwards and splits in two branches towards the
respective Cavern Powerhouses of Stage I and Stage II. Thus, all required civil works and installation of electro-
mechanical and hydromechanical equipment can be carried out completely independent for each stage of the
Project. Moreover, as each Cavern Powerhouse has its own Power Waterway, the only synergies relate to the
Upper Basin and the Laguna Channel.
The axis of the transformer cavern is located approximately 5 m downstream of the downstream wall of the poer
caverns and connected by four bus duct galleries as well as the escape and main access tunnel on either end.
The power cavern hosts the machine hall, with machine blocks, an erection bay, a local control room and rooms
for electro-mechanical auxiliaries and balance of plant, which are located a different levels on the lower floors of
the Cavern Powerhouses. The transformer cavern, on the other hand, hosts the step-up transformers and the GIS
switchgear.
The Cavern Powerhouse of Stage I and Stage II are identical in their dimensions, which are listed in Table PDS-7
below.
Table PDS-7. Main Dimensions of each Powerhouse Complex
Description Dimension
Power Cavern (L x W x H) 109.20 m x 27.20 m x 41.45 m
Transformer Cavern (L x W x H) 113.00 m x 19.40 m x 13.75 m
Unit spacing between turbine axis 20.80 m
Lastly, the main access tunnel (MAT) provides access to the facing sides of the two Cavern Powerhouses. From
there, it crosses the transformer cavern and enters perpendicular the erection bay of the machine cavern at the
machine hall floor level.
6.0 PROCESS DESCRIPTION

In a reversible pumped-storage system, water will be pumped from the lower reservoir (Laguna de Bay) to the
upper reservoir where energy will be stored in the form of gravitational potential energy. Power will be generated
by releasing the stored water through turbines in the same manner as a conventional hydropower station during
periods of high electricity demand (daytime). The upper reservoir will then be recharged by using lower-cost
electricity from the grid to pump the water back to the upper reservoir. The electric energy will be collected at the

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substation transformers and transmitted to an electric grid, in this case the National Grid Corporation of the
Philippines (NGCP), who will be in charge of distributing electricity to electric power distribution company.
Figure PDS-7. Schematic diagram of electrical energy flow from generation to distribution.
Ahunan Pumped-Storage Substation / NGCP

Power Distribution Company
(energy generation) Transformers (electric grid)
7.0 PROJECT SIZE

The Project will generate a gross capacity of 1400MW (1200MW net) to meet the demands for services according
to Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement (ASPA) and Power Supply Agreement (PSA). It is designed to have
two separate project stages: Stage I and Stage II.
▪ Stage I: 700MW ASPA
Stage I shall be capable of generating 700MW net to the Luzon grid at the 500kV GIS Connection
Switchyard at the Upper Basin for primary and tertiary reserve ancillary services. For the sizing of the
Upper Basin, a sustained full load generation of 10 hours is be considered.
▪ Stage II: 500MW PSA

Stage II shall be capable of generating 500MW net for 12 hours to the Luzon grid at the 500kV GIS
Connection Switchyard at the Upper Basin for mid-merit services and have sufficient pumping capacity to
achieve a 24-hr water balance.
The project will be built across a 299.40 hectares land area.
8.0 DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT PHASES
8.1 PROJECT TIMELINE
Figure PDS-8 show the estimated project timeline for the proposed Ahunan Pumped-Storage Hydropower Plant
Project.
Q3 2021 Q4 2022 Q1 2023 Q1 2027
Development Stage Pre-construction Construction Commercial Operation

• Environmental planning • Site conditioning • Access roads
and permitting • Detailed engineering construction
• Feasibility studies design • Civil and electrical
• Grid building permits • Procurement works
• Site layout and • Financial close
technology review
Figure PDS-3. Project Timeline

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8.2 PROJECT PHASES
8.2.1 DEVELOPMENT AND PRE-CONSTRUCTION
The activities included during the development and pre-construction phases are:
▪ Feasibility studies
▪ Site layout and technology review
▪ Environmental studies
▪ Land acquisition
▪ Detailed engineering design
▪ Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor selection
▪ Sources of manpower identification
▪ Permits and clearances acquisition
8.2.2 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
To construct the proposed wind energy facility and associated infrastructure, a series of activities will need to be
undertaken. Table PDS-8 lists the activities during the project construction phase.
Table PDS-8. Construction Phase Activities
Activity Components of Activity Details

• It is assumed that the underground structures will be
excavated by drill and blast (D&B) method, and that the
tunnel forming the power waterways require lining
Underground Works
(concrete lining or steel lining). The vertical shaft is
expected to be conducted by conventional shaft sinking
method.
• The MAT consists of a common stretch and branches to
the respective Cavern Powerhouses. For both stages,
Main Access Tunnel the construction of the main access tunnel (MAT) to the
Cavern Powerhouses is on the critical path and is the first
structure to start construction with.
Cavern • The construction of the power cavern including the
Powerhouse Power Cavern installation of the electro-mechanical equipment is on the
critical path for each stage of the Project.
• The construction of the transformer cavern is not on the
critical path for neither stage of the Project. The
Transformer Cavern
excavation is planned to be done after completion of the
excavation of the main cavern.
Upper Inlet/Outlet Structure and • The construction of the tunnels usually requires the
Upper Gate Shaft following sequencing:
Headrace Tunnel - Excavation and rock support
Pressure Shaft and Surge Tank - Steel lining / concrete lining
High Pressure Tunnel - Grouting (contact grouting)
Penstocks
Distributors
Power Waterway
Draft Tube Tunnels
Collector Tunnels
Tailrace Tunnel
Surge Tunnel
Lower Inlet/Outlet Structure and
Lower Gate Shaft
Laguna Channel

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Activity Components of Activity Details

The Upper Basin is planned as a geomembrane faced
earth fill dam. Its construction is not on the critical path.
As a first step, the foundation at the dam footprint needs
Upper Basin to be established (excavation) and the drainage layer
needs to be placed. Afterwards, the rockfill placement
will be done in parallel with the excavation in the future
reservoir area.
8.2.3 OPERATION PHASE
The main activities during the operation phase involves:

▪ Operation of the Ahunan Pumped-Storage Hydropower Plant;
▪ Planned and unplanned maintenance; and
▪ Operation of permanent staff offices and camp.
8.2.4 ABANDONMENT PHASE
A detailed decommissioning or abandonment plan will be prepared in the unlikely event that the power plant is no
longer viable to operate and maintain. The plan will specify studies to be undertaken such as site assessment and
remediation activity if the site is considered contaminated, the equipment to be recovered or disposed, alternative
use of the abandoned area, and rehabilitation procedures.
9.0 MANPOWER
Manpower requirement for the project is expected to reach over 2,000 during construction and 100 during
operation. The Proponent will prioritize local hiring, and as long as long as the person is qualified for a position
regardless of gender, that person will be considered.
10.0 PROJECT COST

The estimated total capital cost of the Project is 1,114,000,000 USD.
11.0 MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES
The predicted impacts and corresponding mitigation measures of the Project at various stages are tabulated in
Table PDS-9.
Table PDS-9. Predicted Environmental Impacts and Management Measures
Phase / Impact Options for Prevention or Mitigation or Enhancement

I. Preconstruction Phase
The pre-construction phase includes activities such as planning, conduct of the feasibility study, detailed engineering
studies, ocular surveys, and clearance and permit procurement. Minimal impact is expected during this phase.
II. Construction Phase
A. Land
Change of land use ▪ Implement a land use management plan such as replacement
planting and reforestation.
Land tenurial issues ▪ Verify tenurial instruments of the affected areas and secure
agreements with concerned stakeholder (e.g., owner, project
implementer, etc.)
Generation of solid waste from construction ▪ Develop and implement a Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP).
materials and workers’ camp ▪ Appoint a licensed waste contractor to transfer and treat hazardous
waste.

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Change in surface landform / topography / ▪ Conduct geotechnical studies, slope stability assessment,
terrain/ slope engineering design and innovative construction methods to
minimize occurrence of destructive geologic processes.
Soil erosion/ Loss of topsoil/ Overburden ▪ Execute major earthworks during dry season.
▪ Implement erosion control measures such as installation of slope
protection measures and implementation of reforestation activities.
Vegetation loss and disturbance to wildlife ▪ Implement reforestation activities to offset plants that will be
habitat affected.
B. Water
Degradation of water quality and threat to ▪ Conduct best practice in the management of earthworks.
freshwater ecology through increased sediment ▪ Designate spoils and excavated material dumping areas that are far
from construction activities and effluents and or away from the river/springs.
solid wastes from the workers’ camp ▪ Implement an SWMP.
▪ Install on-site toilets at working areas and toilet facilities at workers’
camps.
C. Air
Degradation of air quality due to fugitive ▪ Provide dust suppression measures, e.g., water application and
particulates and emissions speed restriction, in active construction areas.
▪ Replace vegetation in non-structure areas and compact exposed
soil surfaces to minimize wind erosion of topsoil.
▪ Haul spoils/excavated earth materials immediately after excavation.
Noise pollution ▪ Conduct regular maintenance of motor vehicle mufflers.
▪ Provide barriers and shield if any stationary vibrating equipment.
▪ Schedule noisy activities during daytime as much as possible.
D. People
Generation of local benefits ▪ Provide support to LGU’s Development Plan,
▪ Ensure proper coordination with the LGU to enhance local benefits.
▪ Prioritize hiring of qualified workers in the community.
▪ Align corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects with the
development needs of the host LGU and barangays.
Influx of construction-related workers in host ▪ Maximize hiring of qualified local workers within the host barangays
barangays and municipality.
▪ Establish worker accommodation away from villages and
settlements.
Community health, safety, and security ▪ Ensure regular coordination with Barangay Officials and law
enforcement agencies (e.g., police) on the project status and
community concerns related to the project.
Traffic Congestion ▪ Develop and implement a Traffic Management Plan that includes
inputs from the LGUs and other concerned stakeholders.
III. Operation Phase
A. Land
B. Water
Change in water circulation and temperature ▪ Design an acceptable flow velocity at the confluence of the channel
which may affect fish growth and population with Laguna de Bay
Possible suction of small fishes and other ▪ Install trash racks at the lower intake structures to prevent larger
aquatic organisms in the lower intake structures fishes from entering the power waterways.
C. Air
Noise pollution from operation of mechanical ▪ Install noise attenuation measures for mechanical equipment
equipment
D. People
Generation of local benefits ▪ Provide support to LGU’s Development Plan,
▪ Ensure proper coordination with the LGU to enhance local benefits.
▪ Support development of small and micro business enterprises from
the anticipated tourism development.

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▪ Align corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects with the
development needs of the host LGU and barangays.
▪ Prioritize hiring of qualified workers in the community.
Traffic Congestion ▪ Develop and implement a Traffic Management Plan that includes
inputs from the LGUs and other concerned stakeholders.
IV. Decommission Phase
A detailed decommissioning or abandonment plan will be prepared in the unlikely event that the project is no longer
viable to operate and maintain. The plan will specify studies to be undertaken such as site assessment and remediation
activity if the site is considered contaminated, the equipment to be recovered or disposed, alternative use of the
abandoned area, and rehabilitation procedures.
12.0 PRE-SCOPING ACTIVITIES

As part of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process, in accordance with the DENR-EMB Administrative
Order 2003-30, Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign for the Project was held on 15-18 and
23 September 2021.
A total of seven (7) sessions were conducted, covering the four (4) direct impact barangays: Baño, Burgos, Rizal,
and Taft, as well as the three (3) indirect impact barangays: Gonzales, Tavera, and Saray.
IECs in the form of Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with relevant government agencies were also held on 20-21
December 2021.
The IEC aimed to:

• Inform the host municipality and barangays, and other identified project stakeholders about the proposed
Project;
• Inform the stakeholders about the EIA process;
• Gather concerns, comments and recommendations from the stakeholders regarding the Project and its
possible impacts to the environment;
• Gather initial baseline data of the community; and
• Determine the initial perception/social acceptability of the Project to various stakeholder groups through
key informant interviews (KIIs) and/or focus group discussions (FGDs).
A detailed IEC documentation report is provided as Attachment A. Ahunan Power, Inc. is aware of concerns
raised during the IECs on the impacts of the Project to the community and will work with the LGU, barangay
councils, and other relevant stakeholders prior to the implementation of the Project to address these concerns.
Further, an Initial Perception Survey (IPS) was held on 02-06 December 2021 to assess the effectivity of the
conducted IECs and to determine the baseline knowledge of stakeholders regarding the Project. The survey was
also conducted with the four (4) direct impact barangays: Baño, Burgos, Rizal, and Taft, as well as the three (3)
indirect impact barangays: Gonzales, Tavera, and Saray. The results of the Initial Perception Survey are attached
as Attachment B.

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Annex A
Aerial Photo

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Annex A. Aerial Photo of the Project Site.

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Annex B
SEC Certificate of
Incorporation

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Annex C
Amended General
Information Sheet

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Annex D
Certificate of No
Objection (CNO)

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C. Ahunan Project Description For Scoping

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1400MW Ahunan

Project Description for Scoping 2

8.2.2 Construction Phase ............................................................................................................... 21

Project Description for Scoping 3

PROJECT DESCRIPTION FOR SCOPING

1.0 PROJECT FACT SHEET

Project Description for Scoping 4

1.1 PROJECT OVERVIEW

2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 PROJECT LOCATION AND AREA

2.2 PROJECT IMPACT AREA

Project Description for Scoping 5

Figure PDS-1. Project Location Map

Project Description for Scoping 6

Figure PDS-2. Project Impact Area Map

Project Description for Scoping 7

2.3 SHAPEFILE CONFIGURATION

Reference Point (Component) Latitude Longitude

2.4 PROJECT SITE ACCESSIBILITY

Project Description for Scoping 8

3.0 PROJECT RATIONALE

3.2 PROJECT NEED AT THE REGIONAL LEVEL

Project Description for Scoping 9

4.0 PROJECT ALTERNATIVES

No other sites alternatives were studies for this project.

4.2 TECHNOLOGY/DESIGN SELECTION

Project Description for Scoping 10

4.4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Table PDS-3. Hazard Assessment of the Project Site

4.5 SUMMARY OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES

Table PDS-4. Summary of Project Alternatives

Project Description for Scoping 11

5.0 PROJECT COMPONENTS

5.1 GENERAL LAYOUT OF FACILITIES

The project comprises of the following main components:

Figure PDS-3 presents the general layout of facilities.

Project Description for Scoping 12

Figure PDS-3. General Layout of Facilities

Project Description for Scoping 13

5.2 MAIN PROJECT COMPONENTS

5.2.1 ACCESS ROAD

5.2.2 UPPER BASIN

Table PDS-5. Basic Design Parameters of the Upper Basin

Design Parameter Value

Table PDS-6. Main Dimensions of the Upper Basin

Project Description for Scoping 14

Figure PDS-4. Cross-Section Layout of the Upper Basin

Project Description for Scoping 15

5.2.3 POWER WATERWAY

5.2.4 SURGE FACILITIES

5.2.5 INLET/OUTLET STRUCTURES

5.2.5.1 UPPER INLET/OUTLET STRUCTURES AND UPPER GATE SHAFTS

Project Description for Scoping 16

Figure PDS-5. Longitudinal Section of Power Waterway (Stage I)

Project Description for Scoping 17

Figure PDS-6. Longitudinal Section of Power Waterway (Stage 2)

Project Description for Scoping 18

5.2.6 CAVERN POWERHOUSES

Table PDS-7. Main Dimensions of each Powerhouse Complex

6.0 PROCESS DESCRIPTION

Project Description for Scoping 19

Ahunan Pumped-Storage Substation / NGCP

7.0 PROJECT SIZE