The Department of Energy (DOE) has filed a civil complaint against Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste and renewable energy firm Solar Philippines Commercial Rooftop Projects Inc. (SPCRPI) over the alleged failure to complete a 120-megawatt solar power project.
In a 55-page complaint filed before the Regional Trial Court in Taguig City, the DOE sought damages against Leviste and SPCRPI, which it identified as the former owner of the project.
The case centers on the General Santos Solar Power Project, which secured a contract under the government’s Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP) to supply electricity to the Mindanao grid.
According to the DOE, the project failed to deliver its committed capacity within the agreed timeline, affecting government efforts to expand renewable energy generation and strengthen power supply reliability.
The agency also alleged that Leviste continues to exercise control over the companies involved in the project.
The DOE cited what it described as complete ownership of SPCRPI and direct control over related firms that allegedly operated as a single group in making project decisions.
At the center of the dispute is a P1.185-billion performance bond, which serves as a guarantee for the completion of the project.
The DOE said the bond expired without being replaced despite repeated requests from the government.
Aside from seeking damages, the agency asked the court to issue a writ of preliminary attachment to secure the assets of the respondents while the case is pending.
The Green Energy Auction Program is the government’s flagship initiative aimed at encouraging private sector investment in renewable energy and reducing the country’s dependence on coal-fired power plants.
The DOE said compliance with project commitments is critical to ensuring a stable and reliable electricity supply.
As of posting, Leviste has yet to issue a public statement on the complaint.
