Power Wheels Magazine A Notch Above
Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) celebrates a significant milestone in its journey towards a cleaner future with the official inauguration of its 1.056 MW rooftop solar power project. This project, initiated in collaboration with Skye Renewables, now enters its operational phase at HPI’s manufacturing plant in Tanauan, Batangas.
“This inauguration marks a crucial step towards achieving our global carbon neutrality goal by 2050,” said Sayaka Arai-Hattori, President of Honda Philippines, Inc. “We are not just a company that manufactures and sells products; we strive to be a positive force for society. This project embodies our commitment to environmental responsibility and demonstrates our dedication to inspiring a more sustainable future for both our employees and customers.”
To make this initiative a reality, HPI tapped Skye Renewables, a leading developer of captive solar solutions in Southeast Asia.
“Skye Renewables has always been committed to supporting the energy transition across Asia and we are delighted to help support Honda Philippines, Inc. in its sustainability journey,” said Gary Espino, Head of Philippines for Skye Renewables. “With this project, we helped install the solar panels, which then convert the energy of the sun’s photons into electricity. This clean energy will power HPI’s operations during the day, and if needed, they can seamlessly switch to grid electricity when necessary. In some countries, even excess solar energy can be fed back to the grid.”
From left: Mr. Arnold Panghulan, HPI General Manager for Manufacturing Operations Office; Mr. Juan Gerry Datario, HPI Assistant Vice President – Business Administration; Ms. Maria Fe Quijano, HPI Assistant Vice President – Finance and IT; Mr. Jomel Jerezo, HPI Vice President – MC Sales Office & Supply Chain Management Division; Mr. Yasunori Miyamoto, HPI Vice President – Finance & IT; Mr. Kohei Yamamoto, HPI Executive Vice President – Manufacturing; Ms. Sayaka Arai – Hattori, HPI President; Mr. Ross Coull, Skye Renewable Energy CEO; Mr. Gary Espino, Skye Renewables Philippines Inc. President; Mr. Atsushi Kawasaki, Idemitsu Lubricants Philippines Inc. President; Mr. Toshifumi Yokoyama, Singapore Branch Shoseki International K.K Head; Mr. Atsushi Koyano, Idemitsu Lubricants Philippines Head of Sales.
The newly inaugurated solar power project consists of a total of 1,958 panels, each with a capacity of 540 watts. This technology harnesses the abundant Philippine sunshine, generating at least 35 percent of HPI’s maximum daytime energy demand. This translates to 1,267 MWh of clean energy utilization annually, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to environmental benefits.
Additionally, the solar power project will help HPI experience cost savings since solar energy is typically cheaper than traditional grid-purchased power. The project also aids in strengthening the company’s sustainability strategy, enabling HPI to achieve its goals of becoming carbon neutral in its operations.
“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to Honda Philippines’ sustainability journey. This project is a testament to the power of collaboration, and we believe it paves the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future for all,” Espino added.
The inauguration of HPI’s solar power project is a testament to the power of collaboration between leading corporations and renewable energy developers. This project sets a strong example for other businesses to embrace sustainable practices and contribute to a healthier planet for generations to come.