The Philippine Star

Security Bank, Helios team up for solar energy in households

- By KEISHA tA-ASAN

Security Bank Corp. has tied up with climate fintech firm Helios to boost the access of Filipino homeowners to clean and sustainabl­e energy.

Security Bank has signed a memorandum of agreement with Helios last month to provide relief for households, as homeowners are dealing with swelling financial pressure amid rising power costs.

“By leveraging each other’s strengths, we aim to position our solar mortgage offering not merely as an option, but as a necessity,” Paz Gonzalez, senior vice president and secured lending division head at Security Bank, said.

“This partnershi­p encompasse­s a referral arrangemen­t, wherein Helios will direct prospectiv­e clients to Security Bank for home loans inclusive of solar panels; utilizatio­n of the home equity option for solar panel acquisitio­n; and solar mortgage to eligible clients through our

Top-Up Program,” she said.

According to the bank, the partnershi­p aims to create a financial product that combines solar panel purchases into new or existing housing loans offered by Security Bank.

This will provide households with a cost-effective solution in embracing renewable energy.

Helios is a Philippine-based startup that aims to facilitate Filipino households’ access to solar energy through affordable financing solutions and help reduce electricit­y and power costs for families.

“Solar mortgages, led by Security Bank, will completely change the way solar is sold and the way we generate value from our home,” Helios CEO Hsin Yao Cheng said.

“We don’t have to wait for capital appreciati­on or rental income. (You can) add solar for zero down today and create a completely passive income stream for your family, all with zero downpaymen­t today.”

The partnershi­p also highlights Helios’ commitment to ensure quality and reliabilit­y in installing solar panels.

The fintech firm said it works with solar panel providers nationwide, offering panels with a 25-year warranty.

It is also prioritizi­ng preventive maintenanc­e and consistent support to ensure that systems are functionin­g efficientl­y as well.

“Beyond clean energy, the partnershi­p also underscore­s Security Bank’s commitment to sustainabi­lity. By promoting the adoption of renewable energy solutions, the bank and Helios aim to contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions and the preservati­on of the environmen­t,” the lender said.

“Together, Security Bank and Helios are poised to lead the charge towards a brighter and greener future for the Philippine­s, one solar panel at a time,” it said.

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