Energy firm pushes for innovation to meet rising power demand

CEBU, Philippines — Global energy technology firm Schneider Electric is calling for wider innovation in technologies as the Visayas and Mindanao grapple with rising energy demand amid rapid economic and infrastructure growth.

During the company’s Innovation Day Philippines 2026 held in Mandaue City, Schneider Electric executives said energy resilience has become a critical concern for businesses and government institutions as investments, urban development, and industrial expansion continue to accelerate across the two regions.

Ireen Catane, country president of Schneider Electric Philippines, said organizations need greater visibility and control over energy consumption to improve efficiency and maintain reliable operations.

“Together, this strategy provides organizations with greater visibility and control over energy use, enabling a more responsive and efficient approach to operations,” Catane said.

The company cited economic data showing that Central Visayas expanded by 7.3 percent in 2024, exceeding the national average, while several regions in Visayas and Mindanao also posted stronger growth figures.

Schneider Electric said the continued expansion of infrastructure projects, including the New Cebu International Container Port and upgrades to the Bohol-Panglao International Airport, will increase the importance of dependable energy systems.

The company also highlighted concerns over future power supply conditions. It noted that the Visayas grid may continue to experience yellow alerts despite power imports from Luzon and Mindanao, while reserve margins in Mindanao are expected to tighten in the coming years.

Harold Lim, Schneider Electric Philippines country solutions lead, said businesses must improve their understanding of energy consumption patterns to manage costs and strengthen reliability.

“By understanding where and how energy is consumed, organizations in these regions can make better decisions that reduce costs, improve reliability, and support growth,” Lim said.

During the event, Schneider Electric identified three major global trends affecting energy and infrastructure planning: increasing electricity demand, rapid digitalization and artificial intelligence adoption, and a growing emphasis on local resilience amid geopolitical and supply chain uncertainties.

Pang XingJian, Schneider Electric East Asia Zone president, said demand for electricity is expected to rise significantly worldwide as economies become more digital and electrified.

He said artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure are becoming major drivers of energy consumption, requiring smarter and more efficient energy systems.

The executive added that cities outside traditional economic hubs, including Cebu, are playing increasingly important roles in regional development as economic activity becomes more decentralized.

The event gathered representatives from government agencies, business groups, developers, and major corporations to discuss energy security, grid modernization, urban development, and manufacturing automation.

The company said discussions during the event focused on how electrification, automation, and digital technologies can help industries and infrastructure operators improve efficiency, resilience, and sustainability while addressing increasing energy pressures. — /IHM (FREEMAN)