Manila Water is accelerating its transition to renewable energy and energy-efficient operations as prolonged El Niño conditions and ongoing power supply pressures continue to drive up electricity demand and costs across the country.

The water utility said it is expanding renewable energy installations and implementing energy-saving measures across its facilities to reduce dependence on the power grid while improving operational resilience.

Central to the effort is the Manila Water Energy Masterplan 2024–2046, which aims to reduce up to 40% of the company’s projected energy demand and transition toward a fully renewable energy supply. The plan also targets cutting carbon emissions by up to 100,000 tons by 2030.

For the Philippine energy sector, the initiative highlights how large utility operators are increasingly pursuing self-generation and demand-side management strategies to mitigate exposure to volatile electricity prices and potential supply constraints.

From 2021 to 2025, Manila Water’s business units posted significant energy savings through efficiency projects. Cebu Water reduced electricity consumption by 10.1 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) through pipeline descaling and the use of variable frequency drives, while Tagum Water saved 9.5 million kWh through an energy-efficient river filtration and recharge system.

Boracay Water recorded savings of 2.9 million kWh through operational improvements and demand-side measures, while South Luzon Water reduced consumption by 0.7 million kWh through system upgrades and solar integration.

At the same time, Manila Water is expanding its renewable energy portfolio. The company currently operates 2.5 megawatt-peak (MWp) of rooftop solar installations across key facilities. Another 3.8 MWp across 10 sites is scheduled for energization, with a further 6 MWp planned across 12 facilities.

According to Manila Water, increasing renewable energy use helps stabilize energy costs, reduce exposure to market volatility, and improve power reliability during periods of tight supply.

The company has also backed enhancements to the Retail Aggregation Program, which allows groups of consumers to access more flexible and competitive electricity supply arrangements.

“Our shift to renewable energy is not just a business decision. It reflects a deliberate effort to operate more sustainably while preparing the company for future challenges,” said Dittie Galang, Manila Water’s Corporate Communication Affairs Group Head.

“By investing in cleaner and more reliable energy sources, we are strengthening our operations in a way that supports both long-term service delivery and environmental responsibility,” she said.

Manila Water said its combined initiatives are aimed at reducing energy demand, diversifying power sources, and strengthening the reliability of water services amid immediate energy challenges and long-term climate risks.

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