Manila Water powers largest solar installations

Manila Water has partnered with Ditrolic Energy to activate what could be the largest solar power installations in a Philippine water utility company.

The 2.5-megawatt (MW) solar plants across three locations — the Cardona and East La Mesa Water Treatment Plants and San Juan Compound — are now operational.

The solar plants, with a combined capacity of 2.5 MW, are expected to generate 3.6 million kWh annually and reduce 2,576 tons of CO2 each year. Manila Water aims to significantly boost its use of renewable energy.

“We like to quadruple [our use of renewable energy] and grow it as much as possible,” said president and CEO Jocot de Dios.

Initiatives from retail suppliers

Meanwhile, Energy Assistant Secretary Mylene Capongcol said: “We are happy that we have a lot of initiatives coming from our retail supply sector — or the consumer doing their initiative in ensuring their sustainable energy needs.”

In 2023, Manila Water signed a 15-year Solar Facility Power Purchase Agreement with Ditrolic, emphasizing its commitment to clean energy. This move is part of a broader 30 MWp solar portfolio designed to lower energy costs and increase sustainability.