Suppose that the sun, the ultimate source of life, powered the entire planet. Sustainable energy options are more important than ever as the usage of fossil fuels exacerbates climate change. The Philippines is in a great position to use solar energy and fight climate change because of its plentiful sunshine. Manila had about 4,440 hours of daylight in 2024, which means there is a large potential for solar energy production.
SM North EDSA
Early on, SM Prime saw this potential. The largest installation in Southeast Asia at the time was made in 2014 when SM North EDSA became the first commercial building in the Philippines to have solar photovoltaic (PV) panels installed on its roof. This action marked the start of SM Prime’s dedication to energy efficiency and renewable energy.
SM Supermalls President Steven Tan 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.”
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, covering around 33 hectares. These efforts are a vital part of the company’s Net Zero by 2040 strategy, aimed at reducing its carbon footprint.
This 51.6 MW capacity significantly cuts carbon emissions, providing 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.
LED Lights
SM Escalators
The solar power generated directly fuels essential mall operations like lighting and escalators, reducing SM Supermalls’ reliance on the national grid. This, in turn, 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.
SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Square
The sustainability initiatives of SM Prime go beyond solar power. In order to reduce its negative effects on the environment, the corporation also prioritizes waste management, water conservation, and air quality programs. By taking these all-encompassing steps, SM Prime hopes to ensure responsible, creative operations while bringing about a beneficial shift.
In conclusion, SM Prime’s extensive use of solar photovoltaic systems and its wider environmental programs demonstrate its commitment to building a sustainable future for the Philippines. SM Prime is contributing to the creation of a cleaner, greener, and more promising future by setting the standard for sustainability and renewable energy.
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