6 August 2024 – The iconic RCBC Plaza in Makati sets a new standard for sustainable office buildings in the country by transitioning to 100% renewable energy through a partnership with ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES), the retail electricity unit of the Ayala group.

This move marks a significant leap forward for RCBC Plaza, solidifying its commitment to environmental leadership.

The complex, known for its two office towers, four-level podium, and extensive amenities, is the first IT zone in Makati designated by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority. It also houses the 450-seat Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, the Yuchengco Museum, a 200-seat chapel, banking chambers, convenience and service shops, a food court, seven levels of basement parking, lecture and seminar rooms, and an open-air courtyard.

In May 2018, RCBC Plaza received its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) EBOM Gold certification, making it the first multi-tenanted building in the Philippines to achieve the prestigious certification. It was renewed in March 2024.

With its switch to renewables, RCBC Plaza earned another feather in its cap: a “Powered by Renewable Energy” badge from ACEN RES. This first-of-its-kind program in the Philippines acknowledges businesses committed to 100% renewable energy. The initiative aims to inspire and encourage other companies to embrace renewable energy solutions.

The partnership with ACEN RES extends beyond just securing renewable energy for RCBC Plaza. Notably, the Yuchengco group’s banking unit, RCBC, played a pivotal role in enabling ACEN’s pivot to renewable energy with the divestment of its thermal asset, the South Luzon Thermal Energy Corp. (SLTEC), through a groundbreaking Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). The ETM concept is the first of its kind in South and Southeast Asia, piloted by the Asian Development Bank.

Eric Francia, president and CEO of ACEN, said: “We are delighted to partner with RCBC Plaza in their shift to 100% renewable energy. By choosing ACEN RES, they are enabling ACEN to develop more renewable energy capacity, help the country achieve its target to increase the share of renewables, and reducse its reliance on fossil fuels.”

Lorenzo Tan, president and CEO of RCBC Realty Corporation which owns RCBC Plaza, said: “Transitioning to renewable energy aligns perfectly with our vision for RCBC Plaza. This decision not only benefits the environment but also positions us as the premier destination for environmentally-conscious businesses seeking a world-class office space with a commitment to sustainability.”

The partnership between RCBC Plaza and ACEN RES was made possible through the Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) program, a government initiative that gives qualified electricity consumers the freedom to choose their electricity supplier. While the program doesn’t mandate renewable energy selection, RCBC Plaza’s decision sets a strong example, inspiring others to explore renewable energy options.

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