Unilever Philippines has strengthened its decarbonization program by signing a new clean energy supply agreement with First Gen Corporation, extending a partnership that has been in place since 2017.

The deal, sealed on September 10, will provide around 10 megawatts of geothermal power to seven Unilever sites in Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas. These facilities produce some of the company’s most recognized brands, including food staples like Knorr and Lady’s Choice, personal care products such as Dove and Rexona, and household essentials like Breeze and Domex.

The supply will come from geothermal plants operated by Energy Development Corporation (EDC), First Gen’s renewable energy arm, located in Bicol, Leyte, and Negros Oriental. Geothermal energy is unique among renewables for its ability to deliver continuous baseload power, making it a key part of Unilever’s strategy to achieve its net zero emissions target.

Unilever executives highlighted the role of partnerships in advancing climate goals. “This partnership with First Gen has helped us steadily reduce our carbon footprint since 2017,” said Rondell Torres, Unilever Philippines Sustainability Lead. “It reinforces our belief that businesses must take decisive action in making sustainable choices part of everyday operations.”

From a regional perspective, Arvind Sunderrajan, Unilever’s Head of Supply Chain Foods – Greater Asia, said partnerships are essential in scaling climate solutions. “We cannot achieve net zero goals alone. Collaborations with companies like First Gen allow us to embed renewable energy deeper into our operations and inspire others in the industry to follow,” he stated

First Gen executives also affirmed the shared responsibility to act on climate change. “We are committed to supporting Unilever and other partners as they move closer to their sustainability targets,” said Carlo Vega, Chief Customer Engagement Officer. “Climate change is a concern we all share, and solutions must come through partnerships that make clean energy accessible.”

First Gen is recognized as a pioneer in natural gas and geothermal energy in the Philippines and now operates a diverse renewable portfolio that also includes hydro, wind, and solar. Its subsidiary EDC is the largest integrated geothermal producer in the country and one of the leading firms globally in the sector.

Do you think more manufacturing companies should follow Unilever’s lead in shifting to 100% renewable power for their operations?

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