NKC Manufacturing Philippines Corporation (NKC Phils.) has tapped First Gen to build and operate a 1.84-megawatt-peak (MWp) rooftop solar power facility at its manufacturing plant in Cebu, as the company seeks to strengthen its sustainability efforts while securing a stable energy supply.

The agreement, finalized on May 14, covers the design, installation, and management of the solar photovoltaic (PV) system at NKC Phils.’ production facilities inside the Mactan Economic Zone.

First Gen said construction has already begun and is expected to be completed, including the facility’s integration into NKC Phils.’ electrical system, before the end of 2026.

A solar PV system converts sunlight into electricity, allowing businesses to generate part of their power requirements on-site and reduce their dependence on grid-supplied electricity during daytime operations.

NKC Phils. President Norihiko Matsuda said the company decided to invest in solar energy as it faces rising operational costs and increasing energy needs.

“Rising labor costs, inflation and the fact that our industry consumes a lot of heat comes with considerable impact on us. The impetus for using solar power stems from our environmental concerns while ensuring stable energy supply. By integrating solar power into our operation, we are choosing to power our growth with renewable energy,” Matsuda said.

According to First Gen Energy Solutions Vice President for Solar and Commercial Business Development Mark Malabanan, the project reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and efficient energy use.

“We appreciate partners like NKC that has sustainability and customer experience at heart. We share their vision of offering high-quality products at reasonable costs, made with the lowest carbon footprint. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with the NKC team as they continue to shift to renewable energy and rationalize their power consumption,” Malabanan said.

For its part, First Gen said the project forms part of its broader efforts to help businesses manage their energy consumption through solutions such as rooftop solar facilities, energy monitoring systems, and energy audits.

The company added that the Cebu project supports NKC Phils.’ goal of reducing its environmental impact while maintaining reliable operations as it expands its business.

As more manufacturers explore renewable energy solutions to manage costs and improve sustainability, could rooftop solar become a more common feature in Philippine industrial facilities?

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