NKS Solar One and National Power Corporation Partner for Watershed Reforestation Initiative
October 23, 2024
In photo are: National Power Corporation (NPC) Senior Manager Nuel Umali, Blueleaf Energy Philippines Investment Director and Country Head Christopher Chua, Head of Community Relations and Marketing Jason Gavina, NKS Solar One President Andre Pablo Fausto III, NPC President & CEO Fernando Martin Roxas, Macquarie Group Philippines Country Head Eric Yaptangco, NPC Watershed Department Manager Rosaoro Ortiz, and Brgy. East Talaongan Councilor Digna Oliveros.
Makati, Philippines – NKS Solar One and the National Power Corporation (NPC) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on October 16 to launch a watershed reforestation initiative. It aims to rehabilitate a 3-hectare area in the Caliraya-Lumot Watershed. The ceremony, held at Macquarie Group’s Manila office as part of its annual Foundation Week, underscores a shared commitment to environmental sustainability.
The agreement brings together key officials from NKS Solar One, NPC, Blueleaf Energy Philippines, Macquarie Group in the Philippines, and local leaders from Brgy. East Talaongan. Their goal is to protect critical watershed areas, in line with Blueleaf Energy's mission to develop renewable energy projects that drive both ecological and social impact.
The Adopt-A-Watershed program will focus on reforestation and sustainable ecosystem restoration, benefiting both local communities and the environment. NPC President and CEO Fernando Martin Roxas emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, "Reforestation is essential not just for restoring forests, but for safeguarding the water sources that are crucial to millions of Filipinos. It ensures the longevity of our dams and helps mitigate climate change."
Christopher Chua, Investment Director and Country Head of Blueleaf Energy Philippines, said, "This project is closely aligned with our values of environmental stewardship and sustainable development. By restoring the watershed, we ensure its vital role in water security and ecosystem preservation."
Meanwhile, Eric Yaptangco, Philippines Country Head, Macquarie Group, highlighted the company’s sustainability commitment, "This reforestation project reflects our dedication to fostering resilience and addressing climate change, in line with our broader corporate responsibility. Sustainability is a core focus at Macquarie, as we empower people to build a better future." The signing of the MOA also coincided with Foundation Week, an annual Macquarie Group Foundation initiative that celebrates and empowers employee-led community support for causes that matter to them.
Echoing this focus, NKS Solar One President Andre Pablo Fausto III added that, “At NKS Solar One, sustainability and innovation are at the heart of what we do. Whether it’s through reducing carbon footprints or leveraging cutting-edge technologies, we are deeply committed to making a positive impact—both on the environment and within the renewable energy sector.”
The ceremony was also participated by representatives from Barangay East Talaongan, the local community partner in planting and nurturing native trees for the next three years.
NKS Solar One, a joint venture between Blueleaf Energy Philippines and NKS Energy Utilities, is behind the 250 MW floating solar project in Lakes Caliraya and Lumot. The watershed reforestation project will complement their renewable energy efforts, reinforcing its vision of contributing to sustainable development.
The reforestation program is expected to roll out over the next few months, engaging volunteers and community members in conservation activities that will have long-term benefits for both the environment and the local community. To partner, donate, and volunteer for this initiative, please contact Jayar Lamson at jayar.lamson@blueleafenergy.ph.
Blueleaf Energy Philippines is a specialist onshore renewable energy business that develops and operates utility-scale solar projects. It is a portfolio company of Macquarie Capital, operating on a stand-alone basis.