TAGUM CITY (MindaNews / August 28) — The Alsons Power Group is embracing renewable energy sources to help fulfill its promise of providing affordable and sustainable power for Mindanao and Visayas, its chief executive officer (CEO) said.

Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara, the power group’s CEO, said during the development workshop of the 34th Mindanao Business Conference here that they continue to develop its hydro- and solar-based power production.

The conference, which runs from August 27-29, is an annual gathering of local chamber of commerce and industry (CCI) leaders in Mindanao and various partner business entities across the island.

“Several hydro and solar initiatives across Visayas and Mindanao are in various stages of development and we are on track to launch our first large-scale solar plant in Mindanao within this year,” Alcantara said.

At present, the power company has a hydropower plant in Maasim, Sarangani, with another two being developed; a hydro powerplant in Bago, Negros Occidental; and a river power plant at Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte.

The details for the large-scale solar power plant as to where it is located was not disclosed.

The move aimed to realize its thrusts to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and economic relevance, he said.

“Improving electrification in Mindanao is not just about delivering energy. It’s about unlocking the region’s potential and driving progress. It’s about uplifting lives, fueling growth, and giving every family, every business, and every student a fair chance at a better future,” he added.

The availability of power in Mindanao has made its economy grow 5.6% in 2024, Alcantara said. 

“To guarantee that the region’s economic growth potential is met, stable, sustainable, and low-cost power is essential. This will help drive businesses, enhance productivity, and improve quality of life,” he added.

“This region that we’re in is poised to be a major driver of national growth with its economy projected to expand by 6-7% this 2025,” Alcantara added.

Alcantara pointed out that their push for renewable energy through solar and hydro plants will implement long-term solutions to Mindanao’s power needs.

“[U]nreliable or unequal access [to electricity] sets us back, discourages investors, burdens families, and limits our potential,” he said.

“As environmental stewards, we minimize our footprint through renewable energy projects, strict compliance with standards, and proactive initiatives to conserve natural resources and biodiversity. So these include our watershed enhancement programs, tree growing activities, and river cleanups,” he said.

Alcantara said the company has planted almost 61,000 trees on 86.5 hectares of land as part of its watershed enhancement program. The trees planted, he said, had a survival rate of 96%.

“As a pioneering power generation company in Mindanao, we are committed to powering with care,” he said.

The company has energized 14 cities and 11 provinces across the island, helping 8 million people, he said.

Just last year, Alsons Power Group reached Bohol as its first ever diesel-powered station.

The project can produce 95.2 megawatts of electricity as a back-up for Visayas in case of disasters and disruptions, Alcantara added.

“To ensure sustainable growth and development here in Mindanao, not just in Mindanao but in other areas, we must recognize and address the gaps in electrification,” the CEO said. (Razl EJ Teman / MindaNews)