SM Prime overcomes energy challenges for malls

Achieving energy security, affordability and sustainability are among the challenges facing modern businesses. SM Prime Holdings Inc., one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia that creates sustainable, innovative and inclusive spaces for Filipinos, was able to overcome related hurdles through its progressive strategies.

“We started the journey with our energy efficiency programs in the 90s,” reveals SM Supermalls president Steven Tan. “This lets us enjoy our mall spaces now because we maximize our energy use, lower operational costs, while hopefully, reducing our emissions.” 

SM Prime diversified its energy mix and reduced reliance on fossil fuels. SM Supermalls achieved more than 50 percent of renewable energy use across its malls to date by forging partnerships with key RE players and direct procurement.

The company started its journey to Net Zero by 2040 in 2022. In the same year, SM Prime partnered with Aboitiz Renewables Inc. 

It further broadened its RE footprint by partnering with TotalEnergies in 2024. The two megawatt-peak rooftop solar photovoltaic system installed at the Mall of Asia Square — developed with TotalEnergies — generates approximately 3,000 megawatthour of clean energy annually, reducing an estimated 1,430 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year. 

The addition of Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation in 2025, along with the steady increase of leading solar rooftop suppliers for SM Supermalls, helps meet the demands for renewables through on-site generation. 

This commitment to sustainable energy benefits RE producers while supporting the country’s national framework in achieving its emission reduction targets. 

Further, energy independence supports a sustainable lifestyle.

SM malls are vibrant community hubs with its bright, welcoming spaces powered by increasingly renewable sources. RE also facilitates the festive holiday atmosphere at SM Supermalls.

“We are trying to make renewable energy accessible at scale to our malls not just to create decarbonization value for the communities we touch and work with, but to provide flexible, adaptive and sustainable mall experiences,” Tan says.

Adopting RE is part of the SM Green Movement that aims to improve quality of life by enjoining individuals, families and communities to take part in waste management, water stewardship and energy efficiency.