AppleOne diversifies into renewable energy

Cebu-based AppleOne Group has made its first major foray into the renewable energy (RE) sector with the establishment of Astronergy, a new subsidiary focused on solar power generation.

The move marks a strategic diversification for the real estate and healthcare developer, aligning with the Philippines’ broader energy transition goals.

Astronergy’s maiden project is a solar farm in Zamboanga del Norte, Mindanao, spanning approximately 25 hectares and equipped with 10,000 solar panels.

The facility is expected to produce 7 megawatts of direct current in its initial phase. Electricity generated will be supplied to the regional grid under a power purchase agreement with the Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ZANECO).

Currently in the testing and commissioning stage, the solar farm is projected to become fully operational by September 2025. AppleOne has indicated plans to expand capacity to 20–25 megawatts in future phases, tapping both regional and inter-island electricity demand through grid connectivity to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP).

“We’ve always been deliberate in where we grow the business,” said AppleOne Group President and CEO Ray Manigsaca.

“Energy is a natural next step for us. We saw an opportunity to add value to our communities and support the country’s energy transition,” said Manigsaca.

The launch comes amid intensified efforts by the Philippine government to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and improve energy self-sufficiency.

A recent report by the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) highlighted the need to accelerate domestic renewable energy development to ensure long-term grid stability and affordability.

Beyond energy output, the project is expected to generate economic spillovers in the region, including employment during construction and commissioning phases, as well as improved electricity reliability for local communities and businesses.

Zamboanga del Norte was selected for its availability of land, access to transmission infrastructure, and future scalability.

While Astronergy’s current output is committed to a single cooperative, AppleOne is exploring joint ventures and foreign partnerships to scale its renewable energy portfolio nationwide.

AppleOne, known for high-profile developments including Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort and Mahi Center, is positioning itself to play a larger role in essential infrastructure. Its shift into renewables marks a continuation of its strategy to invest in sectors with long-term economic and social value.

“We want the impact to be felt where it matters most,” Manigsaca said.

“Reliable power transforms how communities grow, how businesses operate, and how people live. That’s the kind of future we want to help build,” Manigsaca added.