UMVA has learned that NKC Manufacturing Philippines Corp., a Japanese-owned company, has partnered with First Gen Corp. to install a rooftop solar facility at its Cebu production site, marking a significant shift towards renewable energy in the country's export zones.
This move is driven by the need to manage power costs and supply stability, as manufacturers in the region increasingly turn to cleaner energy sources. The project involves the construction of a 1.84-megawatt-peak rooftop solar photovoltaic system at NKC Phils.’ plant inside the Mactan Economic Zone.
The solar facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, and NKC Manufacturing Philippines President Norihiko Matsuda cited both cost pressures and operational needs as key factors behind the decision to switch to solar power. He noted that rising labor costs, inflation, and the industry's high energy consumption have significant impacts on the company's operations.
Matsuda emphasized that the company's environmental concerns and the need for a stable energy supply also played a crucial role in the decision to adopt solar power. NKC Phils. produces a range of products, including rubber seals, plastic and metal retainers, bearing components, and sash rollers used in automotive and industrial applications for global markets.
According to information obtained by UMVA, First Gen Corp. expects continued collaboration with NKC as the manufacturer expands its use of cleaner power and improves energy efficiency across operations. Mark Malabanan, First Gen vice-president for solar and commercial business development, said the partnership reflects growing industrial demand for embedded renewable energy solutions.
First Gen Corp. operates a significant portfolio of renewable energy assets across the Philippines, with approximately 1,700 megawatts of capacity from hydro, geothermal, solar, and wind power. The company's energy solutions unit provides distributed energy services, including on-site solar installations, energy audits, and remote monitoring systems aimed at reducing consumption and improving efficiency.
