As part of efforts to make its operations sustainable, leading building solutions provider Holcim Philippines, Inc. has signed a 20-year power purchase agreement with Blueleaf Energy to deliver solar power to its cement plants in Bulacan and La Union.

In a disclosure, Holcim Philippines said Blueleaf Energy will finance, build, operate, and maintain solar energy facilities in Norzagaray, Bulacan and Bacnotan, La Union.

These will have a combined capacity of 29 megawatt peak and an annual generation of more than 50 gigawatt hours that will supply up to 15 percent of the energy requirements of Holcim Philippines’ plants there.

The solar energy facilities are scheduled to be completed in 2024. The partnership is projected to significantly reduce the power costs and carbon footprint of Holcim Philippines.

The deal marks Holcim Philippines’ transition to sustainable cleaner energy for cement production. Manufacturing cement is energy-intensive so the shift to renewable power enables Holcim Philippines to conserve natural resources and reduce CO2 emissions.

“Reducing the carbon footprint of our operations is one of our key sustainability commitments,” said Holcim Philippines President and CEO Horia Adrian.

He added that, “This year, we have made great progress by stepping up production of blended cements and replacing coal with alternative fuels.” “Shifting to renewable solar energy will help us further improve as an environment steward and a partner in building progress in the country sustainably,” Adrian noted.

Blueleaf Energy Chief Executive Raghuram Natarajan said “We are pleased to continue to build our strong track record in delivering world-class clean energy solutions in the region and supporting large multinational companies like Holcim.”

“With our credentials of developing and operating over 2 GW of projects, of which more than 250 MW in the Philippines, this partnership also underscores our strong capability to support corporates in Asia in achieving their clean energy ambitions,” he added.