By Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer, Aboitiz Group and President, Aboitiz Foundation
This article was originally published on February 9, 2025 in the author’s Tribune.net column ‘On the G(ood) Side’.
The benefit of investing in renewable energy has never been greater as the impact of climate change to vulnerable communities becomes more costly. We are experiencing the consequences of increasing greenhouse gas emissions yearly — from record heatwaves, destructive storms and rising sea levels. Transitioning to cleaner power sources is one way to help ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Countries like Spain, Norway and Costa Rica have shown that a green power shift is achievable by meeting their ambitious renewable energy targets. Spain, for instance, has doubled its wind generation capacity and increased solar production eightfold since 2008. Norway, with its abundant hydropower resources, produces nearly all its electricity from renewable sources. Costa Rica has achieved over 98 percent renewable electricity production for several consecutive years.
In the Philippines, the Aboitiz Group is taking the lead in clean energy investments by developing a diverse portfolio that includes renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, geothermal, hydro and battery energy storage systems. Aligning with the Philippine government’s goal of having renewables comprise 35 percent of the country’s energy mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040, AboitizPower aspires to build greater green energy capacity by 2030 to achieve a balanced mix between renewable and thermal sources.
Aboitiz’s investments in renewables contribute to the Sustainable Development Goal 7 of ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy. By harnessing cleaner resources, these projects contribute to global efforts to address climate change and promote sustainable development.
Beyond large-scale renewable projects, we are also pursuing our commitment to greener energy through Aboitiz Foundation’s AuroraPH. This flagship initiative under the Aboitiz Future Leaders impact program provides electricity to last-mile schools through solar panels, ensuring students and teachers have access to reliable power.
A year since its launch, AuroraPH has made a profound impact in bridging the digital divide in education. Over 2,000 students and teachers from 11 schools nationwide have benefited from the program through better internet and power connectivity. In partnership with the Department of Education and other stakeholders, we aim to power up to 300 schools in the most remote and underserved communities in the Philippines.
There are economic benefits to investing in renewable energy in addition to driving sustainable development. As the global demand for clean energy rises, the Philippines can position itself as a leader in the green economy by increasing renewable energy investments. New industries can be created by developing expertise in renewable technologies, battery storage and smart grid systems. Partnerships with foreign stakeholders will spur innovation and technology transfer, enhancing the country’s competitiveness.
Investing in renewable energy is more than just meeting targets — it’s about building a greener and better world for the next generation. By embracing alternative power sources today, we can pave the way for a future defined by energy security, economic growth and environmental resilience.
