PEZA and PNOC join forces to develop self-generating industrial park

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has partnered with the Philippine National Oil Co. (PNOC) to embark on an ambitious project aimed at developing a self-generating industrial park (SGIP). A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed on October 14 by PEZA Director General Tereso Panga and PNOC President and CEO Oliver Butalid, marking a significant collaboration to enhance the energy sector within PEZA-managed ecozones.

The MOU emphasizes the identification of new energy projects and business opportunities while focusing on the installation of sustainable energy solutions within the ecozones. Under this agreement, PEZA will provide essential information, conduct studies, and offer logistical support to evaluate the feasibility of developing the SGIP.

In addition to the SGIP, the partnership will explore various energy initiatives, including the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftops on government buildings, retail electricity supply projects, and the promotion of clean and renewable energy technologies. Plans also include small-scale natural gas initiatives for local communities and the development of oil and gas depots and storage facilities.

Both organizations are committed to conducting scoping activities and feasibility studies to promote energy programs within PEZA zones, with an eye on expanding the partnership's scope to include other energy-related ventures as opportunities arise.

“This MOU is a pivotal step in our shared mission to promote energy innovation in the country,” said Butalid. He highlighted the importance of addressing energy challenges in off-grid islands through SGIPs, which will not only provide solar rooftops for new buildings but also offer sustainable and long-term energy solutions.

Panga echoed this sentiment, stating that the collaboration aims to develop embedded energy resources that promote clean and green production while ensuring energy sufficiency.

The initiative is particularly focused on attracting energy-intensive and environmentally friendly investments, such as those in the semiconductor and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing industries, which are viewed as strategic and high-impact sectors across the ASEAN region.