ICTSI’s Mindanao Container Terminal shifts to solar power

Mindanao Container Terminal (MCT), the business unit of International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) at the Port of Cagayan de Oro in the Philippines, has transitioned to operating entirely on solar power during daylight hours.

Since 14 February, MCT has been sourcing solar energy under a retail supply contract with PrimeRES Energy Corporation, in line with the Philippine energy department’s Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) framework.

“The Mindanao Container Terminal is a key gateway for the region, and reducing carbon emissions from our operations aligns with ICTSI’s broader environmental objectives,” commented Aurelio C. Garcia, MCT president and general manager. “This shift to solar power reflects our commitment to sustainability and demonstrates the steps we are taking to lower emissions.”

During the day, the terminal runs on solar power generated by PrimeRES, while at night, it draws electricity from PrimeRES’s broader supply portfolio, including the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM). This hybrid approach optimizes renewable energy use while ensuring uninterrupted operations.

“This partnership with MCT exemplifies our commitment to delivering affordable and reliable power solutions tailored to meet diverse needs,” stated Daniel O. Arago, PrimeRES Energy Corporation’s chief operating officer. “We appreciate MCT’s trust and shared vision of providing consumers with environmentally friendly energy solutions at competitive costs.”

PrimeRES Energy Corporation, a licensed retail electricity supplier under the Philippine Energy Regulatory Commission, specializes in renewable energy investments and partnerships with private distribution utilities and electric cooperatives.

It supplies power to contestable customers from Prime Infra’s renewable energy portfolio and third-party sources. By switching to PrimeRES, MCT expects to benefit from competitive electricity rates and potential cost savings.

ICTSI, through its subsidiary Mindanao International Container Terminal Services Inc. (MICTSI), recently secured a 25-year contract extension to operate and manage MCT. As part of its long-term strategy to enhance capacity and efficiency, MCT plans to invest over US$100 million in infrastructure upgrades.

Additionally, key projects include a 300-meter berth extension and new equipment acquisitions to accommodate projected cargo growth. Once completed, these improvements will increase the terminal’s annual capacity beyond its current 350,000 TEUs, enable larger vessel accommodation, and support new service routes.

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