PLDT, Smart Tap MPower to Register 153 Sites Under ERC’s RAP for Greener, Cost-Efficient Energy Use

In a major step toward energy efficiency and sustainability, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc. have partnered with Meralco’s retail electricity arm, MPower, to enroll 153 of their network sites under the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) Retail Aggregation Program (RAP). The announcement was made by the Presidential Communications Office.

The agreement covers 144 cell sites and nine facilities with a combined electricity demand of over 2,500 kilowatts (kW). This initiative forms part of the PLDT Group’s broader efforts to streamline energy usage across its nationwide digital infrastructure. More RAP activations are expected later this year, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan underscored the significance of the collaboration, stating, “National progress rests on two pillars—reliable power and strong digital connectivity. This partnership is aligned with our commitment to deliver consistent, sustainable service to our customers.”

Under RAP, multiple electricity accounts within a single franchise area are aggregated, enabling businesses to procure power in bulk from licensed suppliers. This model not only helps reduce electricity costs but also opens access to renewable energy sources.

According to MPower, PLDT has the largest energy demand under the agreement, while Smart enrolled the highest number of accounts.

“This partnership with MPower allows us to build a smarter, greener network while improving cost efficiency,” said Menardo “Butch” G. Jimenez, Jr., PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network. Smart COO Anastacio “Boy” R. Martirez echoed this, adding, “As we expand our 5G services, this partnership helps ensure we remain energy-conscious while delivering reliable connectivity.”

The move builds on PLDT and Smart’s earlier milestones. In 2024, 30 of their sites transitioned to 100% renewable energy, and in 2023, five Visayas-based facilities were powered by geothermal energy. The companies have also secured ₱5 billion in green loans to support fiber expansion and carbon footprint reduction.

MPower First Vice President Redel M. Domingo expressed pride in the collaboration: “Our energy solutions are designed to help customers like PLDT and Smart optimize operations while advancing the national clean energy agenda.”

Outgoing ERC Chairperson and CEO Monalisa Dimalanta lauded the initiative, stating, “This bold move by industry leaders like PLDT and Smart sends a clear message: even the biggest players can make courageous decisions in support of a more open, inclusive, and sustainable energy market.”

The PLDT Group has set a target to cut its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030, compared to 2019 levels, aligning with global net-zero goals by 2050.