SM Cares: Strengthening Commitment to Renewable Energy Through Solar PV Expansion

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As global energy demands rise and environmental concerns become increasingly urgent, businesses have a pivotal role in driving the shift toward sustainable energy solutions. Leading the way in the Philippines is SM Supermalls, which continues to expand its adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across its properties. This initiative not only reduces its carbon footprint but also supports the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Renewable Energy Roadmap 2017-2040, which aims to boost the country’s renewable energy capacity.

Scaling Up Solar Power in SM Malls

As of February 2025, SM is in the final stages of implementing solar PV systems across 45 of its properties nationwide, with plans for further expansion. Among the most recent installations, SM City Bataan now operates a 4,060-panel solar PV system with a peak capacity of 2,376,000 kW, significantly reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.

Likewise, SM City Tanza has integrated 2,286 solar panels, generating 1,257.30 kW peak solar power, reinforcing SM’s dedication to clean energy adoption.

By strategically incorporating renewable energy sources into its operations, SM is making significant strides in lowering greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining energy-efficient and cost-effective business practices.

Industry Recognition for Sustainability Leadership

SM’s renewable energy initiatives have earned widespread recognition from national and international institutions. Among the most notable accolades:

SM Mall of Asia (MOA) received the Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution at the 2024 Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards, organized by the DOE. The mall’s 2.7-megawatt (MW) solar PV system can generate enough electricity to power 1,790 households for an entire year.

SM City Butuan won under the New and Existing Building category at the ASEAN Energy Awards 2024 Best Practices Competition for Energy-Efficient Buildings. The recognition highlights the mall’s commitment to energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) innovations in its design and operations.

Supporting the DOE’s Renewable Energy Goals

SM’s large-scale solar power adoption aligns with the DOE’s target of increasing the Philippines’ renewable energy installed capacity to at least 20,000 MW by 2040. Through this initiative, SM is not only cutting operational costs but also contributing to the country’s transition to a cleaner energy future.

Public-Private Partnerships: Driving Sustainability Forward

SM’s sustainability efforts are further strengthened through partnerships with solar PV providers under the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Distributed Energy Resources program. These collaborations define key project conditions, ensuring efficiency and adherence to national energy policies.

"At SM, sustainability is a commitment. Our growing solar portfolio demonstrates our dedication to a greener future for the Philippines, in partnership with the DOE and our valued partners."

— Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group, SM Supermalls

Green Heat Corporation, one of SM’s solar PV providers, also emphasized the long-term environmental and economic benefits of such initiatives:

“Together, we’re not just generating cost savings – we’re shaping a more sustainable future by supporting the long-term environmental goals of our partners while contributing to the Philippines’ green transition.”

— Glenn Tong, Director, Green Heat Corporation

A Blueprint for the Future

Beyond the environmental and financial advantages, SM’s solar PV initiatives serve as a model for other commercial establishments looking to integrate sustainability into their business operations. Through its continued investment in renewable energy, SM is demonstrating how public-private partnerships (PPPs) can drive innovation, create jobs, and build a more resilient energy sector.

DOE officials have also acknowledged the strong collaboration between the private and public sectors in fostering sustainable energy development:

“The DOE has implemented sustainable energy development strategies and institutionalized national and local capabilities, and we are heartened by the strong support we have received from both the private and public sectors.”

— DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara

Conclusion

SM’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainability is a testament to its role as a leader in green business practices. By continuously investing in solar PV systems, SM not only enhances its operational efficiency but also supports national and global efforts in reducing carbon emissions and fostering a clean energy future.

To learn more about SM’s sustainability initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

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