Lopez group raises stake in solar sector

The Lopezes’ First Philec Group plans to increase investments in the solar power industry by installing solar units in Batangas and Cavite that can generate about 8 megawatts.

Data from the Department of Energy (DoE) showed that the First Philec Group, through its subsidiary First Philec Solar Solutions Corp., is seeking approval for the service contracts of its five proposed solar power projects.

According to a DoE report, First Philec Solar is looking to put up the 0.18-megawatt Tanauan City; the 0.15-MW Littelfuse Solar Power Project; 0.50-MW Sta. Rita Solar Power Project; and the 3-MW SunPower Fab2 Solar Power Project, all in Batangas.

The company likewise plans to invest in a 5-MW Cavite Solar Power Project in Silang, Cavite.

First Philec Solar was incorporated in July 2010 to cater to the photovoltaic solar industry, which is seen having great potential for growth in the Philippines.

The company, which focuses on utility, commercial and residential scale photovoltaic (PV) applications, was put up as part of the Lopez group’s increasing exposure to renewable energy and solar technology.

Based on data from its website, First Philec Solar is an end-to-end provider of solar PV systems that generate electric power from sunlight.

In December 2010, First Philec Solar Solutions completed its first commercial scale solar photovoltaic installation in Sto. Tomas, Batangas.