• CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) is installing 8.34 megawatts of solar capacity across all its 11 Pepsi plants in the country, which is enough to cover 14 percent of Pepsi Philippines’ total power consumption, PCPPI president and CEO Phyo Phyu Noe said during the lighting of its solar-powered Christmas tree and switch-on of PCPPI Bacolod Plant’s solar rooftop system in Brgy. Bata, Bacolod City Wednesday.
“Fourteen percent across 11 industrial plants is not a slogan. It is real engineering, real investment, real commitment,” Noe said as he led the switch-on rites together with EEI Power Corp. AVP Andrew Zapanta, Jr., and executive assistant Patrick Lacson representing Mayor Greg Gasataya.
Bacolod becomes the first plant where that commitment turned into light, he said, adding that their Christmas tree, powered by solar energy, represents something deeper. Because it’s the responsible path forward for the next decade of Pepsi Philippines.
Noe said they are just getting started. The solar panels rising across the country is the first step in a larger transformation toward cleaner operations, more resilient plants, and a company that honors its obligations to the environment, to communities, and to future generations.
Meanwhile, Zapanta said “Our collaboration (with PCPPI) is built on a shared vision: to accelerate and transition to renewable energy and create solutions that are both economically sound and environmentally responsible. The solar rooftop system is a testament to that vision- a tangible example of how partnerships can drive meaningful change.
From an economic perspective, this investment is strategic. By harnessing solar energy, Pepsi Cola products will significantly reduce its dependence on traditional power sources, leading to lower electricity costs and improved operational efficiency, he said.
“Equally important are the environmental benefits. This solar PV plant will reduce carbon emissions, minimize reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to cleaner air for the communities we serve. Every kilowatt-hour generated from the sun is a step toward mitigating climate change and preserving our planet for future generations, Zapanta added.*
