VILLA Escudero Plantations and Resort, a premier ecotourism destination in the Philippines, launched a cutting-edge solar energy facility within its 800-hectare property, solidifying its leadership in sustainable tourism in the Calabarzon region. This solar plant would power the estate with energy straight from nature, furthering Villa Escudero’s environmental goals while promoting eco-conscious tourism.
The milestone was marked by a Switch-On event on Nov. 7, 2024, which highlighted the estate’s dedication to environmental protection.
Villa Escudero’s journey toward sustainability began in 1937 with the Arsenio Escudero Hydroelectric Power Plant, which harnessed the power of nature and energized the estate until recently. This new solar initiative would be a natural extension of the estate’s long-term commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and conserving natural resources, all while enhancing the visitor experience.
The solar facility was composed of roughly 400 panels, converting solar energy into usable energy, estimated to reduce the resort’s consumption of 310,000 kilowatt-hour from the power grid; therefore displacing 166 metric tons of supposed carbon emissions. This sustainable initiative was equivalent to planting 8,000 trees annually.
Daniel Escudero, director and senior business development strategist of Villa Escudero, said: “This new solar energy facility symbolizes our ongoing commitment to preserving the natural beauty that Villa Escudero has cherished for generations. By embracing renewable energy, we’re not just preserving the environment but also meeting the growing expectations of eco-conscious travelers. This project sets a benchmark for responsible tourism in Quezon Province, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement.”
Providing solutions for Villa Escudero’s sustainable energy transformation is Corenergy, the power arm of Vivant Energy that aims to develop adaptable and forward-looking solutions for a changing world. The company is committed to supporting the growth of communities by embarking on collaborations with various industries and initiating programs that promote environmental protection and nature conservation
“We are thrilled to partner with Villa Escudero on this pioneering project. This solar facility is more than just a source of clean energy for the estate but also demonstrates how sustainability and tourism can thrive together. We hope this initiative will inspire other sectors to embrace sustainable energy solutions,” said Mark Habana, Vivant Energy vice president.
Villa Escudero’s solar energy facility not only aligned with United Nations’ sustainability goals but also reinforced the estate’s position as a model for eco-friendly tourism in the Philippines.
With this initiative, Villa Escudero is helping shape a greener future while continuing to attract visitors who value both cultural heritage and environmental responsibility.
