SM Supermalls said its solar power capacity had reached 123 megawatts-peak (MWp), with the mall operator targeting 140 MWp by the end of 2026 as it expands energy-efficiency measures across its nationwide network.
The company said its current solar capacity was equivalent to the annual electricity needs of more than 11,400 households, while the 140-MWp target would be enough to power almost 13,000 households a year.
The expansion forms part of the company’s SM Green Movement, which includes renewable energy use, energy-efficient building design and electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities.
“Under the SM Green Movement, responsible energy use is woven into the fabric of SM’s operations DNA,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, SM Supermalls vice president for operations.
“On top of the energy we utilize, efficiency is also implemented for the power we save to benefit the communities surrounding our business,” Eusebio added.
Solar installations expand across mall network
SM Supermalls said its solar power programme began in the early 2010s, with SM North EDSA identified as its first mall equipped with solar panels.
The company said it had since expanded rooftop solar installations in existing malls and incorporated solar panels into its approach to new mall developments.
The company said greater use of solar power could reduce demand on the national electricity grid, potentially leaving more electricity available for households and essential services.
SM Supermalls also cited energy-efficient design features in new malls and redevelopment projects, including skylights intended to maximise natural lighting.
At the upcoming SM Nuvali development in southern Luzon, the company said an indoor garden spanning about one hectare would receive natural light through an ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) roof designed to admit sunlight while limiting heat transfer.
EV charging offered at malls
The company said all its malls now had EV charging stations, with customers able to use the facilities free of charge for up to three hours.
According to SM Supermalls, its network comprises 167 charging stations across 90 malls.
The company said the programme was intended to make charging more accessible, address concerns about driving range and support wider EV adoption in the Philippines.
The company linked the initiatives to its broader sustainability commitments and efforts to extend the role of malls beyond retail.
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