SM Prime is building a smarter, cleaner energy future

2026-01-28 - 08:21

Editor’s note: This press release is sponsored by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. and was handled by BrandRap, the sales and marketing arm of Rappler. No member of the news and editorial team participated in the publishing of this piece. SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) continues to lead the way in sustainable property development, delivering low-carbon office spaces and climate-smart retail environments through energy efficiency initiatives, on-site renewable solutions, and strategic long-term partnerships. From efficiency to impact SM Prime has implemented programs such as lighting upgrades, improved air conditioning and ventilation systems, and optimized building management systems since the 1990s — significantly reducing emissions, proving that energy efficiency delivers environmental and economic benefits. In 2024, SM Supermalls reduced electricity use by 38%, avoiding 156,736 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and saving P2.3 billion. In the recently concluded 5th Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards of the Department of Energy, SM Prime’s business units, namely, SM Supermalls, SM Offices, and SM Hotels, were awarded multiple Certificates of Excellence. This success reflects collaboration among engineering teams, service providers, tenants, and customers, driven by the company’s leadership and commitment to the SM Green Movement. A HISTORIC 100MW MILESTONE. SM North Edsa is the first mall in the Philippines to use clean energy through rooftop solar photovoltaic systems. Renewable energy milestones Guided by its goal of Net Zero Emission by 2040, SM Prime is making decarbonization practical, reliable, and scalable. At SM City North Edsa, it recently celebrated a milestone for clean energy in the country, with 59 properties generating a combined 100 megawatts of on-site renewable energy — one of the largest solar capacities among property developers in the Philippines. Today, more than 50% of energy use across SM Supermalls comes from renewable sources, supported by partnerships with Aboitiz Renewables, TotalEnergies, Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation, and other leading solar providers. This collaborative approach empowers communities while building a safer and more sustainable future. Working with WWF-Philippines, SM Prime has committed to the Science-Based Targets initiative and is working towards its near and long-term targets. Retail architecture working with nature At the heart of SM Prime’s energy strategy is the creation of sustainable and resilient spaces that enrich the community’s experiences. Across its malls, SM integrates passive design elements like high ceilings, large atriums, skylights, open spaces, and natural ventilation, reducing daytime energy consumption while offering brighter and more welcoming spaces for relaxation, dining, and shopping. Smart solutions such as motion-sensor escalators, solar-powered outdoor spaces, and energy-conscious cooling systems make SM Supermalls a top retail destination for tenant-partners and customers alike. TECHNOLOGY MEETS NATURE. In SM City East Ortigas, natural light brightens the food hall and retrofitted lighting produces energy savings. Shared climate benefits for all “Customer expectations evolve quickly. When our leaders first initiated this project, it was in the early days of learning about the impact of our consumption on the planet. Now, brands – whether big luxury labels or small and medium enterprises – are looking for partners who invest in circularity and ESG impacts,” said SM Supermalls president Steven Tan. As SM Prime continues to scale its energy programs, its SM Green Movement builds a resilient energy infrastructure to create a safe, comfortable, and welcoming space for its communities. “We are committed to making our malls as energy efficient as possible by implementing advanced technologies and best practices. SM Supermalls will keep expanding its sustainability efforts to reduce environmental impact and improve the quality of life for both the planet and the communities we serve,” said Tan. — Rappler.com