First Gen Corporation has begun supplying renewable geothermal energy to power the common areas of The Shang Grand Tower, expanding the firm’s renewable energy reach in urban residential developments.

Under an agreement signed in October 2025, First Gen is providing geothermal power sourced from the Unified Leyte Geothermal Power Plant to the 46-storey residential tower’s shared facilities. These include parking floors, residential hallways, lobbies, and the amenities floor.

Shang Properties said the move supports both sustainability and operational goals for the building. “We are pleased to partner with First Gen in advancing our goal of powering The Shang Grand Tower with renewable energy,” said Joseph Salting, head for property management. He added that this shift helps reduce the building’s carbon footprint while also sporting a more efficient electricity cost.

Located in Makati, The Shang Grand Tower has 254 residential units and operates shared spaces that require continuous power supply, thus making reliability a key necessity in its energy sourcing.

First Gen said geothermal energy is a great fit for establishments with round-the-clock electricity needs. “Geothermal power can support larger power demand consistently and continuously, ideal for developments where 24/7 power is a must,” said Carlo Vega, chief customer engagement officer of First Gen.

The company also said the partnership reflects its broader effort to support clients transitioning to renewable energy without compromising supply stability. First Gen’s renewable energy portfolio already includes geothermal, hydro, solar, and wind assets with a combined capacity of about 1,700 megawatts.

To help ensure energy security and offset the intermittency of some of its renewable sources, First Gen also holds a 40% interest in four gas-fired power plants with a total capacity of 2,017 megawatts, in partnership with Prime Infrastructure Capital, Inc.

The arrangement highlights how renewable energy sources such as geothermal are increasingly being applied beyond industrial users, even extending into dense urban residential developments.

As electricity costs and sustainability considerations gain prominence, will more residential and commercial buildings turn to firm renewable energy sources to meet their power needs?

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join our Viber community for more updates.