East Zone concessionaire Manila Water Co. has signed a 15-year solar facility power purchase agreement or PPA with Ditrolic Energy Philippines for the 2.5-megawatt or MW supply for three of its facilities.

In a press statement on Friday, the company said the agreement kicks start the construction and management of three solar facilities that will blend solar renewable energy with Manila Water's current energy mix.

Under the deal, Ditrolic Energy Philippines will construct and manage the solar facilities to be installed in three Manila Water sites — the East La Mesa Water Treatment Plant with 0.5 MW, the Cardona Treatment Plant with 1.0 MW, and the San Juan Reservoir with 1.0 MW.

"Manila Water remains committed to achieving our goals that shape our approach to environmental and community stewardship. This project with Ditrolic Energy will be valuable for us in delivering essential services while continuing environmental stewardship for a sustainable and resilient future," Manila Water president and CEO Jocot de Dios said.

Meanwhile, Tham Chee Aun, Group CEO of Ditrolic Energy said: "We see Manila Water as a priority client, catering to the water needs of the east zone of Metro Manila. Recognizing their significance as a crucial water utility infrastructure in Manila, we are committed to supporting them on their path towards achieving net zero carbon goals."

RE transition

Manila Water has embarked on a renewable energy transition to cut its facilities' daytime peak energy demand from conventional electricity suppliers.

Aside from mitigating the rising cost of conventional energy sources, this move to renewable energy is part of the company's concerted effort to cut down on its operational greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.

Last year, Manila Water reduced its GHG emission by 16,960 tons of CO2 by procuring at least 20 percent of its total power purchases from renewable energy sources.