LA LIBERTAD, Zamboanga del Norte — AppleOne Group has officially switched on its first solar power plant, marking a significant step into renewable energy. The Astronergy Development Dipolog, Inc., inaugurated on August 8, 2026, is the first utility-scale operational solar farm in Region IX, signaling a new era of sustainable power for the province.
A Strategic Leap into Renewable Energy
The 22-hectare facility is equipped with 10,000 solar panels, generating up to 7 megawatts of direct current power in its initial phase. This energy directly feeds the local grid through a Power Purchase Agreement with the Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ZANECO). The project represents AppleOne Group's diversification from real estate and hospitality into clean energy.
The initiative is a concrete response to the growing demand for reliable and affordable electricity in the region. It aims to reduce reliance on traditional power sources and stabilize the local supply. For a province that has faced intermittent power challenges, the solar farm offers a promising path toward energy security.
A Cebu Conglomerate's Commitment to Sustainability
AppleOne Group, headquartered in Cebu City, has built a reputation over 15 years for developing iconic properties across the Visayas and Mindanao. Led by President and CEO Ray Go Manigsaca, the company has expanded into luxury hospitality, healthcare, and commercial spaces. The solar farm is its boldest venture yet into environmental stewardship.
"This solar power plant is more than a business venture. It is our commitment to a cleaner environment, a more reliable power supply, and a sustainable future through clean and renewable energy," said Manigsaca during his welcome address. His statement underscores the company's vision of integrating profit with purpose.
Empowering Communities Through Clean Power
The project is designed to have a lasting positive impact on the communities it serves. By providing a stable power source to ZANECO, the solar farm contributes to the overall reliability of the local grid. This benefits households, businesses, and public institutions alike, fostering an environment conducive to economic growth.
The investment also creates local employment opportunities during construction and ongoing operations. It positions Zamboanga del Norte as an emerging player in the renewable energy sector. The project demonstrates that sustainable development can be both environmentally sound and economically viable.
A Model for Regional Development
The Astronergy solar farm serves as a benchmark for future renewable energy projects in Visayas and Mindanao. It shows that large-scale solar installations are feasible and effective in the region. AppleOne Group's foray into this sector may inspire other developers to follow suit.
The successful inauguration is a milestone not just for the company but for the entire region. It highlights the potential of Mindanao to host significant renewable energy infrastructure. The project aligns with national goals of increasing the share of clean energy in the country's power mix.
