In a groundbreaking initiative blending clean energy and sustainable farming, Rizal Green Energy Corporation (RGEC), a joint venture between PetroGreen Energy Corporation (PGEC) and Japan’s Taisei Corporation, launched San Jose City’s first agrivoltaics project during the inauguration of its 19.6MWDC San Jose Solar Power Project.
The pilot agrivoltaics system, developed by San Jose Green Energy Corporation, a unit of RGEC, spans 2,750 square meters in Brgy. Sto. Niño 3rd. Mounted with 588 solar panels elevated up to two meters, the site integrates crop cultivation directly beneath energy infrastructure—featuring vegetables like eggplant and lettuce, herbs such as basil and parsley, and ornamental plants including sampaguita and roses.
“This not only optimizes land use but also enhances the resilience of crops against climate change by providing enough shading to crops, reducing water evaporation, and improving yield,” said PGEC AVP for Environment and Community Relations Yrel V. Ventura.
The initiative is the product of a multi-sectoral collaboration with Central Luzon State University (CLSU) and the San Jose City Agriculture Office. Officials from the Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and Taisei, RGEC’s joint venture partner, were present at the launch.
“This project is a perfect example of how innovation can create synergies between energy production and food sustainability,” said Kazuhito Tani, RGEC Director and Taisei Deputy Chief of Corporate Planning.
CLSU Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Emmanuel M. Vera Cruz highlighted the broader vision behind the effort: “This collaboration also reinforces our belief that research must go beyond the lab and create ripples to empower communities and transform lives.”
In a nod to community engagement, local residents are directly involved in the facility’s operations. A women’s group from Brgy. Sto. Niño 3rd will handle the sale of harvested crops and retain the earnings, creating a grassroots economic benefit.
“This initiative proves we don’t have to choose one over the other,” added Vera Cruz. “It shows the kind of meaningful impact we can achieve when different sectors come together with a common goal.”
San Jose City Mayor Kokoy Salvador expressed full support: “We look forward to the long-term benefits for the people of San Jose and we assure our investors of the city government’s unwavering support.”
As global attention turns to dual-purpose land use and food-energy resilience, RGEC’s agrivoltaics project sets a precedent in the region—both as a model for sustainable innovation and as a local economic enabler.
What do you think of San Jose’s pioneering agrivoltaics project? Can this dual-use approach reshape energy and agriculture in your area? Let us know.
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