Grand Union Supermarket Inc., which runs the South Supermarket chain, has completed solar carport projects at two of its branches in Malolos, Bulacan and Los Baños, Laguna in partnership with First Gen Group. The facilities, finished and activated in late May 2026, mark First Gen’s first ground-up solar carport developments, coming about one year after construction began and one and a half years following the agreement signed by both sides in January 2025.
Built over the branches’ parking areas, the setup uses over 1,600 solar panels with a total capacity of one megawatt peak. Early estimates show the system will cut carbon emissions by around 527 tons yearly, an amount comparable to the carbon dioxide absorbed by more than 24,200 trees in a year. The solar power also lines up well with store operating hours, lowering electricity costs noticeably during peak daylight generation periods. These savings will help stabilize the chain’s operating expenses, allow better offers for customers, and enhance in-store services.
Mark Malabanan, vice president for solar and commercial business development at First Gen Energy Solutions Inc., said the installations already deliver clear benefits in cost efficiency and environmental impact, adding that First Gen stands ready to expand similar energy support across the entire South Supermarket network.
Founded in 1967 as a family-run business, Grand Union now manages 13 South Supermarket outlets nationwide. First Gen is the Philippines’ biggest renewable energy producer, operating 31 facilities using solar, wind, hydro and geothermal sources. Beyond power generation, the group provides businesses with practical energy management tools including on-site solar systems, usage monitoring and energy audits.
