AppleOne Group, a leading Cebu-based developer with a diversified portfolio in real estate and healthcare, announced its strategic entry into the renewable energy sector with the official launch of Astronergy, its newly established subsidiary dedicated to sustainable power solutions. This significant move underscores AppleOne’s commitment to bolstering local infrastructure and addressing the Philippines’ escalating energy demands.
Astronergy marks its debut with the development of its first solar farm, a sprawling 23-hectare facility located in Zamboanga del Norte, Mindanao. Equipped with 10,000 installed solar panels, the plant is projected to generate up to 7 megawatts (DC) of power in its initial phase. This clean energy will support the local grid through an existing power purchase agreement with Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ZANECO), the region’s electric cooperative.
Currently undergoing testing and commissioning, the solar farm is anticipated to be fully operational by September 2025. Astronergy has ambitious long-term plans to scale its capacity up to 25 megawatts through future expansion phases, further solidifying its contribution to the nation’s energy landscape.
“We’ve always been deliberate in where we grow the business,” said Ray Manigsaca, President and CEO of AppleOne Group. “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 of Astronergy is particularly timely, aligning with the Philippine government’s accelerated efforts to achieve energy self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imported fuels. This strategic direction is reinforced by recent studies, including one from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), which highlights the critical importance of expanding local and renewable sources for long-term energy affordability and reliability.
AppleOne’s investment directly contributes to the country’s ongoing shift toward indigenous energy solutions. By introducing new renewable power into the grid through its agreement with ZANECO, the project significantly bolsters energy stability in Mindanao and supports the region’s broader development goals. Beyond infrastructure, the initiative promises tangible and far-reaching impacts, from creating job opportunities during construction and commissioning to ensuring a reliable electricity supply for surrounding communities.
“We want the impact to be felt where it matters most,” added Manigsaca. “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 strategically selected due to its favorable access to land, robust connectivity to the NGCP grid, and significant potential for future expansion. Astronergy’s location positions it not only to serve Mindanao but also to potentially supply electricity to other regions like the Visayas as capacity increases.
While the solar plant currently operates under an agreement with a single electric cooperative, AppleOne is actively exploring future joint ventures, including interest from foreign partners, to accelerate growth and expand Astronergy’s footprint across the nation.
As AppleOne Group continues to strengthen its national presence, the company remains steadfastly focused on building where it counts: in industries that shape the future, and in regions that deserve strong, forward-thinking partners.
