COURTESY: Alsons Power
Welcome to General Santos City, where the future of Mindanao's energy landscape is being redefined. At the heart of this transformation stands Alsons Power, a dynamic force in the power sector, committed to unlocking the region’s vast potential, fueling communities, and driving sustainable economic growth. Recently, at the 33rd Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) held at the KCC Convention Center, Antonio Miguel “Anton” Alcantara, CEO of Alsons Power, shared insights that are as electrifying as they are promising.
Alsons Power is not just another name in the energy sector; it’s a powerhouse driving Mindanao’s rapid development. As the power business unit of the Alcantara Group, which holds significant investments in energy, agriculture, and real estate, Alsons Power plays a crucial role in supporting the region's economic aspirations. The Department of Budget and Management is aiming for an economic growth rate of 6.5% to 7.5% by 2025, a target that underscores the rising demand for energy in the region.
Energy needs in Mindanao have been on the upswing, reflecting broader national trends. Data from the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) and the Department of Energy show that the Philippines reached a peak energy demand of 17,331 megawatts in 2023, surging to over 19,000 megawatts by April 2024. Mindanao echoed this trend, reaching a peak demand of 2,642 megawatts, marking an increase from the previous year. These rising figures highlight the growing power consumption driven by heightened economic activity and rising temperatures.
Addressing the potential energy shortages is a pressing concern. Assistant Secretary Romeo M. Montenegro, Deputy Executive Director of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), warned of future shortages if proactive measures aren’t taken. To combat this, strategic investments and timely coordination are essential to avoid the dreaded rotating brownouts of the past.
Alsons Power is stepping up to the challenge by expanding and diversifying its energy portfolio. The company is committed to developing new power plants with a strong focus on renewable energy while optimizing existing conventional power assets. With over 460 megawatts of capacity already serving more than eight million people across Mindanao, Alsons Power is poised to meet the region’s growing demands.
Renewable energy is more than a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of Alsons Power’s strategy. The company is actively building its renewable energy portfolio with various hydro and solar projects at different stages of development. These initiatives aim to contribute to the Philippines’ goal of achieving a 35% renewable energy share by 2030 and 50% by 2040.
Alsons Power recently marked a milestone with the completion of the 14.5-megawatt run-of-river Siguil Hydro Power Plant in Maasim, Sarangani Province. This plant, with an estimated annual output of around 95,000 MWh, is capable of powering over 40,000 households. It’s a shining example of the company’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, Alsons Power is advancing other renewable projects like the Sindangan Zambo-River Power Plant, which has a potential capacity of 8.8 megawatts for hydropower and 29 megawatts for solar power.
Alsons Power’s commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable energy extends beyond Mindanao. The company recently secured its first retail electricity supply agreement with Holcim Philippines, which will supply 80% of the energy needs for Holcim’s facilities in Davao and Lugait, Misamis Oriental. This agreement highlights Alsons Power’s role in providing the stable energy needed to attract investments, not just within Mindanao, but across the Philippines.
Alsons Power is also pivotal in attracting large-scale industrial projects, such as the multi-billion-dollar Panhua Integrated Steel Plant in the Kamanga Agro-Industrial Ecozone (KAIEZ) in Maasim, Sarangani. This flagship venture, set for completion by 2026, underscores the company’s role in driving economic progress while safeguarding natural resources.
In conclusion, Alsons Power is more than just an energy provider; it’s a catalyst for change in Mindanao, fostering economic growth, and championing environmental stewardship. As the region continues to evolve, Alsons Power remains steadfast in its mission to power Mindanao’s future, ensuring that the lights shine bright for generations to come.
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