New Clark City Aims for 50% Reduction in Carbon Emissions

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is set to revolutionize the carbon footprint of New Clark City in Tarlac by introducing cutting-edge district cooling technology in collaboration with esteemed companies from Qatar and Japan.

In an official statement issued on Monday, BCDA announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with United District Energy International LLC of Qatar and Marubeni Corp. of Japan. The partnership aims to explore the adoption of low-carbon district cooling technology within New Clark City, a flagship project located in Capas, Tarlac.

Under the MOU, the involved parties will embark on technical and commercial feasibility studies to assess the viability and potential benefits of implementing district cooling technology within the burgeoning metropolis of New Clark City.

This initiative aligns seamlessly with BCDA's overarching vision for New Clark City to evolve into the Philippines' first smart, resilient, and environmentally sustainable urban center.

BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang underscored the environmental significance of incorporating a district cooling system into New Clark City. He emphasized that this technology represents a forward-thinking approach, aimed at providing future residents and businesses with an eco-friendly and cost-effective cooling solution.

District cooling systems employ centralized chillers, thermal energy storage tanks, and advanced cooler systems as efficient alternatives to traditional decentralized air conditioners. By embracing these advanced systems, New Clark City anticipates reducing electricity consumption for its residents and businesses by as much as 50 percent. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide emissions and pollution levels are expected to decrease, while improvements in air quality and temperature control will enhance the urban environment. Moreover, the adoption of this technology will lead to more efficient utilization of available space.

Beyond the implementation of smart cooling technology, BCDA, in partnership with public and private stakeholders, has introduced a series of eco-conscious measures in New Clark City. These encompass the utilization of renewable energy sources, the promotion of active mobility, efforts to conserve biodiversity, and dedicating a substantial 60 percent of the land area to parks, green spaces, and water bodies.

The move towards sustainable, eco-friendly technologies not only enhances the appeal of New Clark City as a modern metropolis but also serves as a model for other urban centers aiming to mitigate their environmental impact while ensuring a high quality of life for residents and businesses.