Aboitiz Power boosting pitch for nuclear power

The Aboitiz Power Corporation is boosting its pitch for nuclear power as a way for the Philippines to achieve decarbonization. 

In a report by Manila Bulletin, Aboitiz Group first vice president and chief reputation & sustainability officer Ginggay Hontiveros sounded off their interest in small modular reactors (SMRs) which are ideal for catering to the needs in off-grid areas during the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC). 

While there is no definite plan yet for nuclear power investments, Aboitiz said that it has conducted preliminary discussions with American firms NuScale and Rolls-Royce for opportunities in the power resource. 

As one of the country’s biggest power generation companies with a massive fleet of coal plants, AboitizPower is begging pushed to take aggressive steps in lowering its carbon footprints. 

The company is looking to increase its renewable energy capacity to 3,700 megawatts (MW) by 2030 as part of its Massive Transformation Purpose (MTP). 

In terms of advancing its inclination for nuclear deployment, Hontiveros said that investment in nuclear could lead to high profits for investors, and it’s a technology that is not hurdled by weather conditions. 

She added that research and technical development with key stakeholder groups and subject matter experts are key to the success of energy transformation. 

Aboitiz Power is set to lead a Philippines-Japan consortium that will explore the development of technologies and integrated systems for potential renewable energy projects in the country. 

The company has also signed a memorandum of understanding with Japanese firm JERA Co., Inc. to explore ammonia co-firing on its power plants, as well as exploring the potential of hydrogen fuel applications in the country.