Wawa Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project Phase 2
As countries intensify efforts to decarbonise power systems, pumped storage hydropower (PSH) has become a cornerstone of grid resilience and renewable integration. Globally, PSH accounts for over 90% of grid-scale energy storage, with more than 170 GW installed. By shifting water between reservoirs, this technology enables storage of surplus energy and release it during peak demand, stabilising grids shaped by intermittent renewables.
Joining this global momentum, Philippine company @Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. (Prime Infra) is developing the 600 MW Wawa Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Power Project, designed to store up to 6,000 MWh daily and support the national goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030.
Building on its involvement in design and construction of Phase 1, SMEC has been reappointed as Owner’s Engineer for Phase 2. This continuity of leadership ensures consistent oversight and seamless delivery across both phases.
In Phase 1, SMEC laid the technical and strategic groundwork for the project’s success, reviewing designs and supervising site works including the lower inlet/outlet, gate shaft and part of the tailrace tunnel. These contributions ensured an informed transition into Phase 2 and the project’s long-term trajectory.
The latest phase includes the construction of dams, an upper reservoir, an underground powerhouse complex, tunnel water conveyance systems and a switchyard, gearing up to supply mid-merit and peak energy to the Luzon grid.
With a total estimated investment of US$2.57 billion, the Wawa PSP — developed by Olympia Violago Water & Power, Inc. (OVWPI), majority-owned by Prime Infra — is recognised as an energy project of national significance. As demand in Luzon grows, Wawa PSP is poised to become a stabilising force for regional energy security.
Engineering Leadership and Integrated Oversight
As Owner’s Engineer, SMEC provides end-to-end support: from detailed design reviews and construction supervision to contractual documentation, stakeholder coordination and progress monitoring. Its systems-based approach ensures compliance with international standards while adapting to local site conditions.
In delivering this project, we’re not just building infrastructure — we’re helping shape the future of clean energy in the Philippines.
Our depth of experience across Asia-Pacific enables us to balance global best practices with grounded technical execution.
“Phase 2 of Wawa PSP pushes the boundaries of pumped hydropower engineering,” added Punitha Rajan Doraisamy, SMEC Regional Director, Dams & Hydropower ASEAN & Pacific. “Through precision engineering and adaptive oversight, we’re delivering a solution that supports peak demand and grid flexibility on a national scale.”
600
MW
total capacity
6000
MWh
daily energy storage
2.57
US$ billion
estimated investment
Clean Energy for a Growing Grid
Once complete, Wawa PSP will deliver clean, dispatchable energy, reducing reliance on fossil-fuel-based peaking plants and cutting emissions. By dynamically balancing supply and demand, the project will enhance grid responsiveness and contribute to a more stable and resilient energy system.
SMEC’s involvement in Wawa PSP represents its largest undertaking in the Philippines to date, underscoring its commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship and collaborative delivery of sustainable energy infrastructure across Asia.
Ready
to
connect?
Talk to one of our specialists about our role in the Wawa Pumped Storage Hydropower Project Phase 2.