BACOLOD CITY – A bottling company is embracing renewable energy and strengthening sustainability efforts by installing solar power plants that would generate 8.34 megawatts (MW) of electricity in all 11 industrial plants nationwide.

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) president Phyo Phyu Noe announced the initiative during the unveiling of the company’s first-ever solar-powered Christmas tree and solar rooftop photovoltaic plant in partnership with EEI Power Corp. at their plant in this highly-urbanized city on Wednesday, Dec. 3.

Aside from using solar power, the company also incorporated recycled empty bottles from its products as decorations for the Christmas tree.

The city government was represented by Executive Assistant Patrick Lacson in behalf of Mayor Greg Gasataya during the ceremony.

“Bacolod becomes the first plant where that commitment turns into light,” Noe said, emphasizing that their effort is not merely a slogan but a demonstration of real engineering, investment, and commitment.

Noe added that while lighting a Christmas tree may seem simple, the gesture symbolizes a shift in how the company operates, grows, and defines leadership.

“We are not doing this to look modern or for awards — not in a country as vulnerable to climate change as ours,” he said.

According to Noe, the planned solar installation will be enough to cover 14 percent of PCPPI’s total power consumption.

He stressed that responsibility is not about speeches but about decisions: “Talking is easy. Execution is harder. This year, we moved from intention to action.”

He added that the company pursued the project not because it is trendy, but because it is necessary.

“We are just getting started,” he said, noting that the solar panels rising across the country are only the beginning of a larger transformation toward cleaner operations, more resilient plants, and a company that honors its obligations to the environment, communities, and future generations.

EEI Power Corp. assistant vice president and business unit head for solar Andrew Zapanta Jr. said the effort is not simply a rooftop solar project but a bold statement of leadership in sustainability and corporate responsibility.

He noted that PCPPI and EEI Power share a common vision of accelerating the transition to renewable energy and creating solutions that are both economically viable and environmentally responsible.

Economically, he said, solar energy will significantly reduce dependence on traditional power sources, resulting in lower electricity costs and improved operational efficiency.

“These savings will strengthen competitiveness and resilience in an increasingly dynamic market,” he added.

Zapanta also emphasized environmental benefits, saying the solar PV plant will reduce carbon emissions, lessen reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to cleaner air for the communities they serve.

“Every kilowatt-hour generated from the Sun is a step toward mitigating climate change and preserving our planet for future generations,” he said.