APPLEONE Group, a Cebu-based property developer, has entered the renewable energy space with the launch of its new subsidiary Astronergy, marking its first foray into power generation with a 7-megawatt solar farm in Zamboanga del Norte.
The project, now under testing and commissioning, is expected to be fully operational by September 2025 and forms part of AppleOne’s broader diversification strategy, which includes recent investments in healthcare.
The solar facility spans 25 hectares and houses 10,000 panels, supplying energy to the grid through a power purchase agreement with Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative Inc.
“We’ve always been deliberate in where we grow the business,” said Ray Manigsaca, AppleOne president and chief executive officer. “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.”
The launch comes as the Philippine government intensifies efforts to boost energy self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imported fuels. A recent study by the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis noted the need to accelerate investment in local and renewable sources to ensure long-term affordability and supply reliability.
AppleOne plans to expand the solar plant’s capacity to as much as 25 megawatts in future phases. The company is also considering joint ventures — including those with foreign partners — to scale Astronergy’s operations and extend its energy footprint beyond Mindanao.
“We want the impact to be felt where it matters most,” Manigsaca said. “Reliable power makes a difference in how communities grow, how businesses run, and how people live. That’s the kind of work we want to be part of.”
Zamboanga del Norte was selected for its available land, proximity to the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines, and growth potential. While the facility currently serves a single cooperative, its location positions it to support other regions like the Visayas as additional capacity is added.
AppleOne’s solar investment also aims to generate local jobs during the construction and commissioning phases, supporting both infrastructure growth and economic development in the region. / KOC