NKC Manufacturing Philippines Corp. (NKC Phils) has tapped First Gen Group to construct and operate a rooftop solar power facility at its factory in Cebu.
The agreement, finalized on May 14, calls for First Gen to design and install a 1.84-megawatt peak rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system at the NKC production facilities inside the Mactan Economic Zone in Cebu.
First Gen has started constructing the PV system and expects to complete the project before the end of the year.
The initiative is part of the NKC Group’s broader efforts to integrate sustainability practices into its core business and operations. NKC Phils is the local auto and industrial parts-making subsidiary of Japanese multinational Nakanishi Metal Works Co. Ltd. (NKC Group).
First Gen Energy Solutions vice president for solar and commercial business development Mark Malabanan said the company shares NKC’s vision of offering high-quality products at reasonable costs made with the lowest carbon footprint.
“We appreciate partners like NKC that have sustainability and customer experience at heart,” Malabanan said.
“We look forward to continuing to collaborate with the NKC team as they continue to shift to renewable energy and rationalize their power consumption,” he said.
NKC Phils president Norihiko Matsuda said rising labor costs, inflation and high energy consumption have had an impact on the company.
“The impetus for using solar power stems from our environmental concerns while ensuring a stable energy supply,” Matsuda said.
“By integrating solar power into our operation, we are choosing to power our growth with renewable energy,” he said.
Established in 1997, NKC Phils manufactures precision rubber seals, plastic and metal retainers, bearing-related products and sash rollers for windows and sliding doors. The NKC Group is headquartered in Osaka, Japan.
First Gen is the largest renewable energy producer in the Philippines, with a portfolio of 31 facilities that generate electricity from solar, wind, hydro and geothermal energy. The company also supports businesses with remote energy monitoring systems and energy audits.
