Alsons Power CEO Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara (center) joined FDC Utilities President and CEO Juan Eugenio L. Roxas (far right) as panelists at the 45th Annual General Membership Meeting of the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (PHILRECA) held at the PICC. Alcantara emphasized the importance of balancing conventional power optimization with a review of renewable energy pricing to support sustainable energy mix.
At the 45th Annual General Membership Meeting of the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (PHILRECA) held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, Alsons Power Group’s CEO Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara emphasized the company’s commitment to having a balanced energy mix for a more sustainable future. Speaking to over 1,600 delegates from 120 electric cooperatives (ECs) across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, Alcantara highlighted the need to optimize conventional power operations while also reviewing renewable energy pricing to ensure long-term sustainability and efficiency in meeting the country’s growing energy demands.
During the panel discussion, attention was drawn to the pressing need for both conventional and renewable power plants to ensure energy security. In 2023, the Department of Energy recorded a peak demand of 17,331 Megawatts (MW), which rose to over 19,000 MW in April 2024. In Mindanao, peak demand reached 2,642 MW in April, marking a 13% rise from the previous year’s peak demand. Experts warned that without the development of new baseload power plants, the region could face potential energy shortages in the coming years.
Alcantara explained that the 237 – MW Sarangani Energy Baseload Plant in Maasim, Sarangani stands as one of the most cost-efficient baseload power producers in Mindanao. He added that the plant “continually explores new technologies and innovative practices to enhance its efficiency and reduce its environmental impact.”
This includes implementing various sustainable practices and optimizing fuel use to reduce operational costs. Alcantara further emphasized that the company’s focus extends beyond short-term gains, prioritizing long-term sustainability.
“By enhancing the plant’s performance and adopting greener practices, we not only lower power costs for our consumers but also contribute to a cleaner environment. It’s a balance of providing reliable and affordable energy while taking active steps toward environmental responsibility. This holistic approach allows us to support economic growth while preserving the quality of life for the communities that depend on us.”
With a generating capacity of over 460 MW, Alsons Power is dedicated to unlocking potential and driving progress in Mindanao and beyond. Serving over eight million people across the Island, the company is also expanding its renewable energy portfolio with various hydro and solar projects at different stages of development and implementation. Presently, the Group is preparing for the commercial operation of its 14.5-MW Siguil Hydro Power Plant in Maasim, Sarangani this year.
Highlighting the Group’s commitment to diversifying its energy portfolio, Alcantara announced, “We plan to launch our first large-scale solar project this year. Solar energy has the potential to significantly reduce the blended cost of electricity for consumers and lower overall portfolio costs. We are currently exploring optimal solar and battery storage solutions to address the growing demand for affordable and sustainable power.”
While highlighting the advantages of renewable energy, Alcantara also emphasized the strategic importance of hydropower. “Hydropower provides far-reaching benefits beyond electricity generation, such as infrastructure development, watershed management, and reforestation,” he said. However, he acknowledged the challenges associated with hydropower, noting that its high costs and complex development process require a careful balance between environmental stewardship and economic viability, but “Despite these challenges, we are committed to expanding our hydropower capacity,” Alcantara continued.
“With a 50-85% utilization factor, hydropower is far more efficient than solar, which averages around 20%. To ensure its long-term sustainability, we believe a review of its pricing structure is necessary.”
Alcantara concluded by reaffirming the company’s core values: “We Power with Care’ is more than a slogan or brand promise—it is the essence of who we are. Our commitment goes beyond delivering electricity. We are dedicated to supporting the communities we serve, ensuring they not only succeed but thrive.”
