Philippine telecommunication companies are aggressively embracing green initiatives, setting their sights on a 2050 net-zero emissions target and strengthening their commitment to environmental sustainability.
PLDT Inc. and Globe Telecom are leading the charge, implementing diverse strategies ranging from securing green financing to deploying renewable energy solutions across their vast networks.
PLDT, the country’s largest telecom company, has secured P5 billion in green loans to date, partially funding its fiber expansion and minimizing the carbon footprint of its network rollout.
Melissa Vergel de Dios, PLDT chief sustainability officer, earlier said that securing green loan facility showcases the company’s commitment to integrate sustainability in every facet of its operations, and underscores holistic approach to environmental stewardship and responsible business practices.
“Together with the financial community’s support, we can drive more meaningful change and collectively build a sustainable future for future generations,” she said.
PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. worked with First Gen Corp. to power six network facilities in Mindanao with 100-percent renewable energy. This includes the crucial PLDT Ponciano regional facility, which houses VITRO Davao—the first data center in Davao City. This switch makes VITRO Davao the telco’s first 100-percent RE-powered data center.
The PLDT Group plans to expand its renewable energy mix, incorporating geothermal, solar, and wind sources. In May 2023, PLDT and Smart launched their RE supply partnership with First Gen, utilizing geothermal energy for network facilities in Cebu, Samar, Capiz, and Iloilo.
Prior to this partnership, the PLDT Group installed its largest solar rooftop facility in the Visayas, covering sites in Cebu, Roxas, Iloilo, and Bacolod. The Group expects to transition additional facilities in Greater Metro Manila to RE within 2024.
Beyond RE transition, PLDT and Smart are adopting green technologies and resource optimization initiatives for network sites, offices, and facilities nationwide.
Solar-powered savings
Globe Telecom has deployed hybrid solar power across 26 sites nationwide, including NCR, South Luzon and Mindanao, from 2022 to 2023. These sites include off-grid towers, traditionally reliant on diesel generators, now powered by renewable energy with battery energy storage systems, or a combination of renewables and diesel. The technology was also tested in areas with unreliable or non-existent grid connections.
The results were impressive. Globe estimates savings of over 119,000 liters of diesel fuel and avoided electricity consumption of over 67,000 kWh, translating into P6.9 million in savings.
“Successfully implementing hybrid solar power across multiple sites represents a big leap in our efforts to decarbonize our operations,” said Joel Agustin, head of Globe network planning and engineering.
Globe’s cell sites traditionally relied on grid electricity (partially generated from coal) and diesel generators for backup. The shift to sustainable sources became essential, especially for off-grid or unreliable grid sites, which typically relied on continuously operating generators.
Globe’s hybrid solar power solution includes a scalable Solar Mini-Grid, built within or adjacent to the facility, providing direct power to on-site equipment. It also features an Advanced Solar Hybrid solution, an intelligent off-grid power system primarily using solar energy, switching to batteries and diesel generators only when necessary.
Encouraged by the results, Globe will progressively deploy its hybrid solar power technology across its cell sites, actively pursuing green solutions and innovations to reduce its network’s GHG and carbon footprint.
Sustainability efforts
Globe’s commitment to sustainability has earned it an “AA” rating from MSCI ESG Research, recognizing its proactive management of ESG risks and dedication to sustainable practices.
“Our ESG rating reflects the collective effort of our entire organization in integrating sustainability principles in the way we do business,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s chief sustainability and corporate communications officer.
“We remain dedicated to driving positive change, not only within our company but also in the communities we serve and the nation at large,” she said.
MSCI ESG Research provides MSCI ESG Ratings on a scale of AAA (leader) to CCC (laggard), assessing governance structures, policies, targets, performance metrics, and controversies. Globe’s consistent “AA” rating highlights its proactive approach to risk management and sustainable business practices.
