PLDT, Smart accelerate decarbonization and energy resilience as global fuel volatility threatens telecom operations

As global oil prices surge and energy markets face renewed disruption amid unrest in the Middle East, telecommunications giant PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. are stepping up efforts to decarbonize operations while strengthening the resilience of their nationwide network infrastructure.

The group said its ongoing transition toward cleaner energy and more efficient technologies is designed to ensure stable connectivity for millions of Filipinos even as global energy markets experience volatility.

Since 2021, PLDT and Smart have been pursuing initiatives aimed at reducing operational emissions from fuel and electricity use by 40 percent by 2030, using 2019 as the baseline year. The strategy includes expanding renewable energy adoption, deploying energy-efficient network technologies, and strengthening internal capabilities through workforce upskilling focused on the transition to a low-carbon economy.

PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr. said these initiatives are helping reinforce the company’s operational stability amid growing global uncertainty.

“Our strategic focus on greening and modernizing our network operations have been crucial in strengthening our readiness, especially at this time of global uncertainty. We remain steadfast in delivering stable and high-quality connectivity and in ensuring that our customers remain protected and prioritized,” Jimenez said.

Across the country, 27 major PLDT and Smart facilities have already transitioned to operating on 100 percent clean energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. In the Visayas, five additional network facilities have installed rooftop solar systems as part of the group’s broader renewable energy expansion.

Smart has also deployed an artificial intelligence-powered green radio solution that allows network equipment to automatically adjust power consumption based on real-time demand. The technology has reduced energy usage by more than 10,000 megawatt hours in a single year, demonstrating how intelligent network management can support both operational efficiency and sustainability goals.

Supporting these efforts, the group has designated more than 100 Certified Energy Managers across over 200 facilities nationwide to monitor and optimize energy performance while maintaining uninterrupted service delivery.

PLDT and Smart are also leveraging the Retail Aggregation Program through MPower to consolidate electricity demand across multiple facilities. The arrangement allows the company to secure renewable energy supply options while stabilizing electricity costs for its operations.

Sustainable financing is also becoming part of the telecom group’s energy transition strategy. Smart has secured a green loan that supports the rollout of energy-efficient 5G infrastructure, reflecting a broader shift toward embedding environmental considerations into long-term investment planning.

Through these initiatives, PLDT and Smart aim to reduce their environmental footprint while safeguarding the reliability of the country’s digital infrastructure during a period of global energy uncertainty.

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