WINNING | Manila Water scales solar push to cut power risk

Insider Spotlight

• Manila Water is accelerating its in-house solar rollout to hedge against rising power costs and grid volatility
• The utility is embedding renewable energy into core water and wastewater operations, not as a pilot but as infrastructure
• Provincial units are replicating energy-efficiency playbooks once limited to Metro Manila
  

Manila Water is turning energy management into a competitive advantage as utilities grapple with volatile electricity prices and tighter sustainability expectations. 

The company’s expanding solar footprint and disciplined efficiency programs are increasingly shaping how it delivers reliable water service while keeping long-term costs in check.

That strategy gained national validation this month after the Department of Energy (DOE) cited both Manila Water’s East Zone operations and its Cebu-based subsidiary for leadership in renewable energy and efficiency initiatives.

Why it matters

Energy is one of the biggest cost drivers for water utilities. By investing early in on-site renewables and efficiency systems, Manila Water is reducing exposure to power price swings while aligning with national clean energy targets.

Manila Water’s 2.5-megawatt-peak solar photovoltaic installation in its East Zone operations—now the largest in the Philippine water sector—was recognized with the 2025 DOE Sustainable Energy Award under the Private Institution Category. 

The DOE pointed to how solar power has been integrated directly into critical water and wastewater facilities, supporting operational resilience rather than sitting on the sidelines.

“This recognition from the DOE affirms Manila Water’s unwavering commitment to delivering safe and reliable water services while caring for the planet. Our solar installations and innovative energy management initiatives reflect our dedication to reducing carbon emissions, strengthening operational resilience, and embedding renewable energy into the lifeblood of our operations,” Arnold Mortera, chief operating officer for the East Zone, said in a press release on Dec. 22, 2025.

“We will continue our transformation toward sustainable energy, so that every drop of water we provide contributes to a cleaner and greener future for all,” Mortera added. 

Zoom in

The solar project is part of a broader Solar Masterplan that targets up to 50 MWp of installed capacity for Manila Water’s own use over the coming years. 

Beyond emissions reduction, the plan is designed to lower operating costs and improve grid sufficiency for customers.

At the same time, Cebu Manila Water Development Inc. (Cebu Water), under Manila Water Philippine Ventures Inc. (MWPV), received the 2025 DOE Energy Efficiency Excellence Award in the Energy Management of Small and Medium Industry Category. 

This marks the third straight year an MWPV company has earned DOE recognition, following Boracay Water in 2023 and Tagum Water in 2024.

Cebu Water’s citation reflects how energy management frameworks developed at the group level are being replicated across provincial operations—delivering measurable power savings without compromising service quality.

“This third consecutive recognition from the DOE underscores the strength of our Energy Management and the commitment of our teams across all operating units. From Boracay to Tagum, and now Cebu, we continue to demonstrate that energy efficiency is a strategic enabler of affordable, resilient, and sustainable water services,” said Melvin John Tan, chief operating officer of MWPV.

What’s next

Cebu Water will represent the Philippines at the 2026 ASEAN Energy Excellence Awards, extending Manila Water’s sustainability playbook beyond national borders. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma