A massive transformation is underway at SteelAsia’s Compostela plant in Cebu, as the company prepares to harness the power of the sun. An ambitious rooftop solar project, spearheaded by Buskowitz Energy, is poised to dramatically reshape the facility’s energy landscape.
The Compostela Works Solar Rooftop Project, slated for completion this November, isn’t just about adding solar panels – it’s about forging a more sustainable future. Covering an astounding 65,560 square meters of roof space, the installation will utilize 12,888 individual solar panels and 54 inverters to capture the sun’s energy.
Once operational, this impressive array is projected to generate approximately 12,000 megawatt-hours of electricity each year. This substantial output will satisfy roughly 25% of the plant’s total power needs, a significant step towards energy independence and reduced operational costs.
The environmental benefits are equally compelling. The project is expected to slash carbon dioxide emissions by an impressive 8,400 metric tons annually. To put that into perspective, it’s the equivalent of recycling 73,500 tons of waste over five years.
The impact extends even further, representing an offset of 832 million kilometers driven by passenger vehicles, or avoiding the consumption of 90 million liters of gasoline. These figures highlight the tangible difference renewable energy can make in mitigating climate change.
Buskowitz Energy is handling every facet of the project, from initial engineering and procurement to the final construction and ongoing operations. They will also provide crucial asset management services, ensuring the long-term efficiency and reliability of the solar installation.
SteelAsia’s commitment to renewable energy isn’t new. For decades, hydroelectric and geothermal sources have been integral to their operations. This solar project represents a natural progression, embracing solar power for its practicality and environmental advantages, according to SteelAsia Executive Vice-Chairman Andre Y. Sy.
This initiative aligns with a broader national push towards renewable energy in the Philippines. Currently, renewables account for 25% of the country’s power mix, but ambitious goals are in place to increase that share to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040.
The Compostela Works Solar Rooftop Project isn’t simply a corporate endeavor; it’s a powerful demonstration of how industry can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for the Philippines and beyond.
