PLDT Inc. is accelerating the solarization of its cell sites as part of a sustainability-driven strategy to manage rising electricity costs and improve network resilience amid global inflationary pressures and geopolitical uncertainties.

PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr. said the company is closely monitoring evolving consumer behavior while prioritizing cost management, particularly in electricity and fuel expenses.

“With the current environment, it’s still too early to tell how consumer behavior will ultimately evolve,” Jimenez said. “The bigger focus is managing costs—especially electricity and fuel—and that’s where our sustainability initiatives come in.”

He noted that electricity and fuel remain the most significant and volatile components of PLDT’s operating expenses. While fuel costs are partially mitigated through pricing agreements with major suppliers, electricity costs remain more exposed to market fluctuations due to the lack of long-term contracts across facilities.

“That’s where we’re seeing the biggest jump,” he said, adding that the company is strengthening energy management and accelerating the deployment of solar-powered cell sites to improve efficiency and cost control.

The expanded solarization program forms part of PLDT and Smart’s broader green transition strategy, which supports a target of reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 40% by 2030. The initiative integrates decarbonization into network planning, facility operations, and energy procurement.

By increasing on-site solar capacity, PLDT aims to reduce reliance on grid electricity, enhance cost predictability, and improve network stability, especially in areas prone to power interruptions and price volatility.

Jimenez said the company is focusing on actionable measures amid global uncertainty.

“What we can do is act decisively on the areas we can control. Solarizing a lot of our sites strengthens our resilience while supporting our sustainability goals,” he said.

PLDT and Smart’s broader sustainability efforts also include renewable energy-powered facilities in Metro Manila and AI-enabled green radio technology that optimizes energy consumption based on real-time demand.

Jimenez added that the company remains focused on managing operating expenses while ensuring reliable connectivity for customers.