Harnessing the Sun: SM Prime’s Solar Power Revolution
Harnessing the Sun: SM Prime’s Solar Power Revolution
Imagine a world powered by the sun. It’s the ultimate source of life. As climate change worsens due to our reliance on fossil fuels, the need for sustainable energy alternatives becomes crucial. The Philippines, with its abundant sunlight, is in a prime position to harness solar power and combat climate change. In 2024, Manila experienced around 4,440 hours of daylight. This translates to significant potential for solar energy production.
Leading the Charge
SM Prime recognized this potential early on. In 2014, SM North EDSA became the first commercial property in the Philippines to install solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on its roof. It was the largest installation in Southeast Asia at the time. This move marked the beginning of SM Prime’s commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Steven Tan, SM Supermalls President, explains, “SM’s environmental sustainability began with energy and water conservation. Revolutionizing our malls’ energy efficiency through renewable sources magnifies our responsibility to serving people and the planet.”
Solar Power Expansion
Today, SM Supermalls operates 44 malls with solar PV systems, generating a combined peak energy of 51.6 megawatts (MW). The largest installation is at SM City Santa Rosa. With a total of 96,000 solar panels across malls in Luzon and Visayas, SM Prime holds the Philippines’ largest solar energy portfolio. This covers around 33 hectares. These efforts are part of the company’s Net Zero by 2040 strategy aimed at reducing its carbon footprint.
Environmental Impact
This 51.6 MW capacity significantly cuts carbon emissions. It provides clean energy that powers thousands of homes or removes thousands of cars from the roads. It also reduces the need for coal, offering environmental benefits for both the planet and local communities.
The solar power generated directly fuels essential mall operations like lighting and escalators. This reduces SM Supermalls’ reliance on the national grid. In turn, it helps stabilize the power supply, reducing the risk of outages and easing the burden on electricity providers. By tapping into clean, renewable energy, SM Prime is contributing to a more sustainable future for the Philippines.
Beyond Solar Energy
SM Prime’s sustainability efforts extend beyond solar energy. The company also focuses on waste management, water conservation, and air quality initiatives. All these measures are designed to minimize environmental impact. Through these comprehensive efforts, SM Prime strives to create positive change while ensuring responsible, innovative operations.
Commitment to Sustainability
In sum, SM Prime’s large-scale adoption of solar PV systems, combined with its broader environmental initiatives, exemplifies its dedication to creating a sustainable future for the Philippines. By leading in renewable energy and sustainability, SM Prime is helping pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and brighter tomorrow.
