mindanao grid

ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, Philippines — Cebu-based developer AppleOne Group takes its first major step into renewable energy with the launch of Astronergy, its newly established subsidiary focused on renewable power.

Reflecting the company’s move to support local infrastructure and contribute to the country’s growing energy needs, Astronergy has developed its first solar farm, located in Zamboanga del Norte, Mindanao.

Spanning approximately 23 hectares and equipped with 10,000 installed solar panels, the plant is projected to generate up to 7 megawatts direct current power in its first phase, supporting the local grid via an existing power purchase agreement with Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ZANECO), the region’s electric cooperative. 

Now undergoing testing and commissioning, the facility is expected to be fully operational by September 2025, with long-term plans to scale capacity up to 25 megawatts through future phases.

With deep roots in real estate and a recent move into healthcare, AppleOne continues to focus on sectors that deliver long-term value and meet critical needs.

“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 comes at a time when the Philippine government is accelerating efforts to strengthen energy self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imported fuels. This direction is echoed by a recent study from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), which emphasizes the importance of expanding local and renewable sources to help secure long-term energy affordability and reliability.

AppleOne’s investment directly contributes to the country’s ongoing shift toward local energy solutions. By introducing new renewable power into the grid through its agreement with ZANECO, the project helps bolster energy stability in Mindanao and contributes to the region’s broader development goals.

More than infrastructure, the project delivers real impact. From job opportunities during the construction and commissioning phases to reliable electricity supply in surrounding areas, the benefits are tangible and far-reaching.

“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 chosen for its access to land, connectivity to the NGCP grid, and potential for scale. Astronergy’s location allows it to serve not just Mindanao but also supply electricity to other regions like the Visayas as capacity increases.

While the solar plant currently operates through an agreement with a single electric cooperative, AppleOne is also exploring future joint ventures, including interest from foreign partners, to accelerate growth and expand Astronergy’s footprint.

As AppleOne strengthens its national presence, the company remains focused on building where it counts: in industries that shape the future, and in regions that deserve strong, forward-thinking partners.