First Philec’s new facility starts operations

Lopez-led First Philec Inc., Southeast Asia’s largest manufacturer of high efficiency transformers, opened its new facility in Tanauan, Batangas, on Feb. 22.

The new plant manufactures transformers using mainly a high efficiency material for its core, called amorphous metal. This is an alloy that performs better than the commonly used silicon cores.

First Philec’s new plant caters to the needs of power distribution utilities, rural electric cooperatives, as well as establishments in the property, commercial and industrial sector.

Once operating at full capacity, the plant will manufacture transformers at a rate of 24,000 units per year and provide employment for at least 500 workers.

With this capacity, First Philec cements its stature as a pioneer and leading maker of distribution transformers in the region.

First Philec is a subsidiary of First Philippine Holdings Corporation (FPH), a listed holding company of the Lopez family with interests in power generation, manufacturing, real estate, construction and energy services.

Based on First Philec’s estimate, the plant will also help create direct and indirect employment for up to 4,000 people, inclusive of local parts suppliers and third-party service providers.

With nearly five decades of experience, First Philec provides more than half of the country’s demand in transformer solutions satisfying the needs of the progressive distribution utilities and electric cooperatives, as well as commercial, industrial and real estate businesses of all sizes, including malls and factories.

According to First Philec president Ariel Ong, transformers made from amorphous alloys perform better than counterparts made from traditional silicon metals.

“Distribution transformer inefficiencies accounts for about two percent losses of the total generated energy. Here in our country, we have 80,000 units already installed and we estimate that the use of 100 percent amorphous transformers in the whole network can reduce the losses between 0.3 to 0.5 percent, which is about P2 billion annually in wasted energy. More importantly, this can save up to 200,000 tons of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) per year for the Philippines or five million tons of greenhouse gas reduced over the life of the transformers” Ong said.

Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez led top First Philec and FPH officials in holding ceremonies to mark the launch of the new facility. Lopez said the “DTI is committed to pursue competitive, job generating and inclusive industries, wherein the Philippines has comparative advantage and should be known for. DTI shares your passion on nation-building.”

According to Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi is focusing on strong partnerships with energy companies to enable our country to compete.

Fuentebella also highlighted the importance of new technology in reducing power cost. “The use of new technologies to produce quality products that results to higher efficiency reduces electricity prices for consumers. We look forward to seeing more from the Filipino technologists to reduce systems loss, enable more energy efficiency and give more benefits to Filipino consumers,” Fuentebella said.

“In our efficient use of energy, we can create wealth for the country and improve lives of the Filipinos,” Fuentebella said.