Harnessing the Sun: First Gen and HCG’s Solar Power Adventure in Cavite

COURTESY: First Gen Corporation

Imagine powering your daily activities with the sun’s energy, reducing your carbon footprint, and saving money simultaneously. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, First Gen Corporation and HCG Philippines are making it a reality. Recently, First Gen, the Philippines' leading clean and renewable energy company, teamed up with the Philippine subsidiary of HCG, a renowned Taiwan-based global bathroom solutions provider. Their mission? To build a solar power facility at HCG’s manufacturing plant in Cavite.

This project is more than just a business deal; it’s a leap toward sustainability. By installing a 660-kilowatt (kW) solar power plant at HCG's 10-hectare facility in Dasmariñas, Cavite, the partnership aims to cut down on carbon emissions and electricity costs. This bold step not only aligns with HCG's decarbonization program but also exemplifies their commitment to environmental responsibility.

So, why solar power? For starters, it’s a clean, renewable resource that offers numerous benefits. By tapping into this abundant energy source, companies like HCG can significantly reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, thereby lowering their carbon emissions. This shift towards renewable energy is crucial for mitigating climate change and fostering a sustainable future.

First Gen, alongside its sister company Pi Energy Inc., is spearheading this transformation. With a strong portfolio of geothermal, wind, hydro, and solar energy, First Gen is well-equipped to assist HCG in achieving its decarbonization goals. Their collaboration represents a forward-thinking approach to energy consumption, showcasing how businesses can thrive while being environmentally conscious.

HCG’s journey towards sustainability didn't start with this solar project. In fact, the company has been committed to decarbonization for years. Back in 2020, HCG signed a contract with First Gen to source 850 kW of clean energy from the Bacon-Manito geothermal power plant, operated by First Gen subsidiary Energy Development Corporation. This partnership highlights how HCG strategically opts for renewable sources to meet its power needs.

Eugene Lin, HCG Philippines' senior vice president, emphasizes the company's dedication to creating efficient, cost-saving products that minimize environmental impact. Their initiatives, including the new solar power facility, are steps toward a greener future, aligning with global sustainability trends.

First Gen’s collaboration with HCG is a testament to the growing importance of renewable energy in the Philippines. As one of the country’s largest independent power producers, First Gen boasts an impressive 3,697 megawatts of installed capacity across its 33 power facilities. Their commitment to clean energy not only benefits their partners but also contributes to the nation’s energy independence.

Mark Malabanan, First Gen’s assistant vice president for solar, expressed pride in supporting HCG’s transition to a decarbonized future. By leveraging clean energy to power operations and integrating energy efficiency solutions, both companies are paving the way for a sustainable and regenerative future.

In conclusion, the partnership between First Gen and HCG is a shining example of how businesses can collaborate to achieve sustainability goals. By building a solar power facility at HCG’s manufacturing plant in Cavite, they are not only reducing emissions but also setting a precedent for other companies. As renewable energy continues to gain momentum, such initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping a cleaner, greener world.

So, next time you think about clean energy, remember the sun-soaked fields of Cavite, where First Gen and HCG are lighting the way to a sustainable future. It's not just about saving money or reducing emissions; it's about leaving a legacy of environmental stewardship that future generations can be proud of.

From Vision to Reality: PBBM Marks Significant Achievements at Cavitex

COURTESY: Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 

Friday, June 21, 2024, is a date to bookmark as a monumental day for Cavite commuters. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led not one, not two, but three significant groundbreaking and inauguration ceremonies along the Manila-Cavite Expressway (Cavitex) C5 Link and the Cavitex-Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) Link Project. The air was buzzing with excitement as key players in the infrastructure world gathered for this event.

Joining the President were Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan and Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan. The event also saw the presence of Senator Mark Villar, Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, and other notable figures. It was clear that this event wasn’t just about infrastructure; it was about community, progress, and the future of Cavite.

One of the highlights was the inauguration of the 1.9-kilometer Segment 2, also known as the Sucat Interchange of Cavitex C5 Link. This fresh stretch of road connects the Cavitex Interchange to the Sucat Interchange, offering a new route for commuters. And guess what? It’s toll-free for a whole month! So, if you’re looking to skip the usual traffic jams, now’s the time to hit the road.

The newly-opened segment is the latest addition to the Cavitex C5 Link, joining the already operational 2.20-kilometer Segment 3A-1 from Merville to C5/SLEX and the 1.6-kilometer Segment 3A-2 from E. Rodriguez to Merville. With these segments up and running, it’s only a matter of time before the entire project is complete.

But wait, there’s more! President Marcos also led the groundbreaking of the final 2-kilometer Segment 3B of the Cavitex C5 Link. This segment will connect the Sucat Interchange to E. Rodriguez, completing the entire project. Set for completion in 2025, this last leg promises to be a game-changer.

When all is said and done, the P12.65 Billion Cavitex C5 Link will be a 7.7-kilometer, 6-lane toll road. Imagine cutting your travel time from South Luzon Expressway/C5 to Cavitex from a whopping 40 minutes to just 10 minutes. That’s not just saving time; that’s reclaiming your life from the clutches of traffic.

As if one groundbreaking wasn’t enough, the event also featured the launch of the 1.2-kilometer Cavitex-CALAX Link Project. This new project aims to decongest traffic in Cavite, particularly along Centennial Road from Gahak to Tirona Highway. It’s set to be a direct link between the coastal expressway and CALAX, crossing through key areas like Barangay Binakayan and Daang Bangkal Road.

The alignment will also touch Centennial Road at Barangay Pag-asa III in Imus, making it a crucial connector for various routes. For daily commuters and businesses alike, this project is a beacon of hope for smoother, faster travel.

While the infrastructure itself is impressive, the real stars of the show were the collaborative efforts that made these projects possible. From government officials to private sector stakeholders, everyone came together to turn these visions into reality. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when different sectors work towards a common goal.

President Marcos emphasized the importance of these projects in his speech, highlighting how they will not only ease traffic but also boost economic activities in the region. With less time spent on the road, people can focus more on productive endeavors, contributing to the overall growth and development of Cavite.

So, there you have it—Friday, June 21, 2024, was a day of progress, promise, and new beginnings. With the completion of the Cavitex C5 Link and the groundbreaking of the Cavitex-CALAX Link Project, Cavite is on its way to becoming a more accessible and efficient region. The future looks bright, and it’s all thanks to the collective efforts of everyone involved.

Whether you’re a commuter tired of endless traffic or a business owner looking for better logistics, these projects are set to make life a whole lot easier. So here’s to smoother rides, shorter travel times, and a brighter future for Cavite!