Mindanao Container Terminal Shifts to Solar Power

Mindanao Container Terminal (MCT), a key business unit of International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), has begun operating exclusively on solar power during daylight hours.

The terminal, located at the Port of Tagoloan Misamis Oriental, started sourcing solar energy on Feb. 14 under a retail supply contract with PrimeRES Energy Corp.

The agreement falls under the Department of Energy’s Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) framework, which allows consumers to choose their electricity supplier.

During the day, MCT will use solar power from PrimeRES, while at night, it will source electricity from PrimeRES’ supply portfolio, including the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).

This hybrid approach ensures continuous operations while maximizing the use of renewable energy.

“The Mindanao Container Terminal is a key gateway for the region, and reducing carbon emissions from our operations aligns with ICTSI’s broader environmental objectives,” said Aurelio C. Garcia, MCT president and general manager.

“This shift to solar power reflects our commitment to sustainability and demonstrates the steps we are taking to lower emissions.”

PrimeRES Energy Corp. is a retail electricity supplier focused on partnerships with private distribution utilities and electric cooperatives.

Licensed by the Energy Regulatory Commission, PrimeRES sources electricity from Prime Infra’s renewable energy portfolio and third-party suppliers.

“This partnership with MCT exemplifies our commitment to delivering affordable and reliable power solutions tailored to meet diverse needs,” said Daniel O. Arago, PrimeRES chief operating officer.

“We appreciate MCT’s trust and shared vision of providing consumers with environmentally friendly energy solutions at competitive costs.”

Switching to PrimeRES is expected to provide MCT with competitive electricity rates and potential cost savings.

MCT recently secured a 25-year extension to operate and manage the terminal through its subsidiary, Mindanao International Container Terminal Services Inc. (MICTSI).

As part of its long-term growth plan, MCT will invest more than $100 million in infrastructure upgrades.

The project includes a 300-meter berth extension and the acquisition of new equipment to handle growing cargo volumes.

Once completed, these enhancements will expand MCT’s annual capacity beyond its current 350,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

The berth extension will allow the terminal to accommodate larger vessels and new service routes, improving trade connectivity for Mindanao’s importers and exporters.

The expansion aligns with the government’s efforts to attract more investment and boost business activity in the region.