Manila Water taps solar power for 3 plants

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water Co. Inc. plans to install solar power systems at its three key facilities this month to reduce carbon emissions and accelerate decarbonization efforts.

The planned solar facilities, with a combined capacity of 2.5 megawatts peak, will rise at the Cardona Treatment Plant in Rizal province, East La Mesa Treatment Plant in Quezon City and San Juan Compound.

Manila Water is targeting to complete the installation of solar photovoltaic systems by the fourth quarter of this year.

“Once fully completed, Manila Water’s solar facility projects will increase the facilities’ operational efficiency, benefiting residents of Metro Manila, Rizal Province, San Juan City and Quezon City,” the listed water firm said in a statement on Tuesday.

Manila Water explained that reducing its dependence on the power grid and using nonconventional energy sources mitigate rising power costs, which may translate to lower water rates for its customers.

This would also lower greenhouse gas emissions by around 2,564 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent annually.

“As a company whose business is heavily reliant on nature, it is imperative for us to be proactive in ensuring environmental sustainability across all aspects of our operations. The Decentralized Solar installation is just one of the many energy-saving measures Manila Water is undertaking as part of our Energy and Sustainability Masterplan,” Manila Water corporate communication affairs group director Jeric Sevilla said.

The solar projects form part of a 15-year solar facility power purchase agreement valued at P217 million signed by Manila Water and Ditrolic Energy last year.

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This undertaking is outlined in Manila Water’s strategy to lower its carbon footprint while ensuring sustainable water services for its customers, in support of the Department of Energy’s National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Plan.

Manila Water also said it taps certified energy managers and conservation officers to conduct regular audits aimed at reducing energy consumption and improving operational efficiency.

Incorporated in 1997, Manila Water holds a congressional franchise to provide water and waste water services to the eastern side of Metro Manila and parts of Rizal province.