MANILA, Philippines – Primer Group takes another stride towards sustainability as its office headquarters, Primer Star Center and Workplays, is powered by renewable energy using ACEN Corporation’s Renewable Energy Solutions (RES) from September 26, 2024 onwards – as part of the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP).
Earlier this year, Primer Distribution Center (PDC), which is the company’s in-house warehousing and distribution hub, became the first Filipino-owned Green Mark-certified building in the country.
“As we approach our 40th year anniversary, Primer Group’s advocacy to environment conservation and sustainability have never been stronger. Switching to green energy illustrates our commitment to this endeavor,” said Primer Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Jimmy Thai.
The Green Energy Option Program
According to ACEN, there is an increasing demand for renewable energy in the Philippines [1]. More companies, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) recognize the benefits of switching from electricity generated to sustainable energy sources.
One driving force behind this is the government, specifically the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), which is an initiative under the Renewable Energy Act of 2008. Under the GEOP, companies who have at least 100 kilowatts of electricity demand for the past 12 months are eligible to make the switch.
Having satisfied the requirements, Primer Group initiated the switch for its headquarters buildings, specifically Primer Star Center and Workplays, as early as March 2024.
Timeline of the Switch to Renewable Energy Source (RES)
In March 2024, the Primer Group met with MERALCO to express their intent of switching to RES upon knowing their buildings are eligible. On May 22, 2024, the electric meters of the buildings were replaced with GEOP-ready electric meters, with the help of MERALCO.
Eventually, Primer Group decided to select ACEN as the supplier of renewable energy.
After months of preparing and complying with the requirements, Primer Group made the successful switch on September 26, 2024 led by Mr. Melvin Martinez, Facility Supervisor of the company.