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Marybeth Collins
The Mindanao Container Terminal (MCT), operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) in the Philippines, has transitioned to solar power for daytime operations as part of its broader sustainability strategy. This move, which began on February 14, 2025, aligns with ICTSI’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and integrating renewable energy into its global operations.
MCT now sources solar power through a retail supply contract with PrimeRES Energy Corporation under the Philippines’ Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) framework. During daylight hours, the terminal operates exclusively on solar energy, while at night, it draws electricity from PrimeRES’ broader energy portfolio, including the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM). This hybrid model maximizes renewable energy use while ensuring uninterrupted operations.
“This transition to solar power reflects ICTSI’s commitment to sustainability and emissions reduction,” said Aurelio C. Garcia, MCT president and general manager.
PrimeRES, a licensed retail electricity supplier, partners with private distribution utilities and electric cooperatives to provide renewable energy solutions. “Our partnership with MCT highlights our goal of delivering reliable and cost-effective clean energy,” said Daniel O. Arago, PrimeRES Energy Corporation’s chief operating officer.
MCT’s shift to solar energy is expected to provide competitive electricity rates, reduce costs, and significantly cut carbon emissions in line with ICTSI’s decarbonization goals.
ICTSI has made sustainability a core component of its long-term strategy. In January 2024, the company announced its goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for Scope 1 and Scope 2 by 2050, with a 26% reduction in GHG emissions per container move by 2030, using 2021 as a baseline. To achieve this, ICTSI has launched the Climate Change Action Initiative, ensuring that its operations align with the Paris Agreement’s objectives.
Several of ICTSI’s terminals have already reached major milestones in carbon neutrality. Four of its facilities in the Americas—Contecon Guayaquil in Ecuador, Contecon Manzanillo in Mexico, Tecon Suape in Brazil, and Rio Brasil Terminal in Brazil—have achieved carbon-neutral status.
Beyond its sustainability initiatives, ICTSI is investing over $100 million in MCT to enhance its operational efficiency and capacity. The terminal will be extended by 300 meters to accommodate larger vessels, acquire new equipment to support projected cargo volume growth, and expand its annual capacity beyond its current 350,000 TEUs. These upgrades will improve connectivity for importers and exporters in Mindanao, strengthening the region’s role as a key trade hub. The expansion also aligns with government efforts to attract more investment and business activity to the area.
