The Department of Energy (DOE) expressed optimism about increased adoption of renewable energy (RE) among manufacturing firms after a recent collaboration between MINERGY Renewable Ventures Inc. (MRVI) and Nestlé Philippines. This partnership is pivotal as Nestlé’s last factory in Mindanao prepares to transition fully to renewable sources through MRVI’s hydroelectric projects.
In a statement, the DOE highlighted the groundbreaking of MRVI’s 10 megawatt (MW) Lower Cabulig and 9.3 MW Cabulig II hydroelectric power projects in barangay Natubo, Jasaan, Misamis Oriental. The 9.3 MW project, with an estimated cost of P2 billion, is expected to commence operations by May 2027.
Assistant secretary Mylene Capongcol emphasized the importance of such collaborations in achieving the country’s RE targets, including a goal of 35 percent RE in the generation mix by 2030, equating to approximately 52 gigawatts of installed capacity. “To achieve this ambitious target, we need all sectors to contribute, including manufacturing, which is critical for energy consumption and emissions reduction,” she said.
Capongcol added the partnerships reflect a shared commitment to cleaner energy and are essential for lowering greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy security.
Nestlé Philippines is dedicated to reaching net-zero emissions across its operations and is an active participant in the REPH100 initiative, which encourages firms to operate on 100 percent renewable energy.
As of the end of 2023, renewable energy sources, including hydro, geothermal, wind, biomass, and solar, accounted for 29.7 percent of the country’s power supply, totaling 8,416 megawatts, according to DOE data.
