JG Summit to expand solar energy business beyond Gokongwei group

Gokongwei-led JG Summit, through its renewable energy (RE) subsidiary Merbau Corporation, will be expanding solar investments outside of the conglomerate’s span, so they can similarly help other businesses achieve their decarbonization strategies.

The forward business plan is being firmed up following the completion of the 13.811-megawatt solar rooftop installation undertaken by Merbau at the JG Summit facility in Batangas.

As emphasized by Merbau president and CEO Patrick Henry C. Go, “aside from our Group, we are expanding our RE portfolio outside the Gokongwei Group as part of our solid commitment to delivering sustainable and innovative energy solutions to eligible end-users in our drive to contribute to a greener future.”

He asserted that the company has been laying down a grand investment plan to “become a leading renewable energy company in the country.”

Within the core of the conglomerate, Go stated that the solar rooftop ventures being pursued are those with Cebu Pacific, Robinsons Land Corporation for its malls and industrial warehouses, as well as with Universal Robina Corporation for its manufacturing plants and distribution channels, while the targets beyond affiliates have yet to be divulged.

The Gokongwei firm’s initial installation at its Batangas facility has been rated highly by Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotillla as “the company’s contribution to providing more renewable energy solutions.”

According to Lotilla, “this will not only result in cost savings and a lower carbon footprint but also encourages the construction of more RE resources consistent with the government’s policy on energy diversification and clean energy future.”