The Department of Energy (DOE) welcomes the recent partnership between MINERGY Renewable Ventures, Inc. (MRVI) and Nestlé Philippines following the groundbreaking and capsule-laying ceremonies of the 10MW Lower Cabulig and the 9.3 MW Cabulig II Hydroelectric Power Projects (HPP) in Brgy. Natubo, Jasaan, Misamis Oriental on 15 October 2024. These hydroelectric power projects will provide renewable energy to Nestlé's last remaining factory that has yet to fully transition to clean energy sources.
Nestlé Philippines is committed to the transition toward net-zero emissions across all its operations. As part of this commitment, three years after launching its sustainability efforts, only one of its plants remains to be switched to renewable energy sources. This significant progress demonstrates that the transition to clean energy is both achievable and inclusive for manufacturing businesses and industries.
DOE Assistant Secretary Mylene C. Capongcol emphasized the importance of collective efforts in achieving the country's renewable energy goals, highlighting that "our target of a 35 percent share of renewable energy in the generation mix by 2030 translates to approximately 52 gigawatts of installed capacity. To achieve this ambitious target, we need all sectors to contribute --- including the manufacturing sector, which plays a vital role in energy consumption and emissions reduction."
She emphasized that partnerships and collaborations, such as the one between MRVI and Nestlé Philippines, are critical not just for reaching the renewable energy capacity targets but for achieving the broader, long-term goal of a cleaner, more sustainable energy system. "These collaborations demonstrate the commitment of both the public and private sectors to transition to cleaner energy sources, which is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring energy security," she added.
This Project offers a model for large-scale commercial and industrial consumers to transition to renewable energy sources.
In 2021, local private businesses launched the movement REPH100, inspired by RE100, a global corporate renewable energy initiative bringing together hundreds of large and ambitious businesses committed to 100% renewable electricity. Similarly, REPH100 commits to show climate leadership by using RE in their operations.
Nestlé Philippines is a member of this movement, committing to completely transitioning operations to net-zero emissions. This year, three years after the launch, their remaining plant in Mindanao is set to switch to renewable energy sources through this hydropower project. This impactful example serves as a blueprint that transition is inclusive and feasible for manufacturing businesses and industries.
By sourcing electricity from a clean hydropower facility, Nestlé is setting a powerful example for other companies to follow. Its efforts highlight how integrating renewable energy solutions into business operations can significantly reduce carbon emissions and promote more sustainable, eco-friendly practices in the corporate sector.
The Lower Cabulig and the Cabulig II HPP of MRVI is a joint undertaking between Mindanao Energy Systems, Inc. (MINERGY) and Philippine Potamic Hydro Power Corp. Parallel to this, MINERGY is exploring another potential 1.4MW HPP in Iligan City to ensure power supply commitments to Nestlé are fulfilled. ###