MinDA, DOE, French firm inks pact on sustainable energy

DAVAO CITY—A memorandum of understanding (MoU) on pushing sustainable energy initiatives in Mindanao was signed by French company Hydrogene de France (HDF), the Mindanao Development (MinDA), and the Department of Energy in Manila on Monday (July 22).

The MoU aims to drive research and development in efficient technologies for harnessing renewable energy sources and locally produced green hydrogen for sustainable applications in Mindanao.

Under this agreement, HDF working with MinDA and DOE commits to jointly foster investments in renewable energy technologies with particular emphasis on hydrogen-based solutions.

The MOU between HDF, DOE, and MinDA aims to facilitate research and development of applicable and efficient technologies, including electrolytic systems, proton exchange membranes, hydrogen fuel cells, and safe hydrogen storage systems, utilizing renewable energy sources and indigenously sourced green hydrogen in selected areas within the Philippines for sustainable application in the energy sector.

HDF is one of the global leaders in large-scale green hydrogen infrastructure and high-power fuel cell manufacturing. And in pursuit of the objectives the company is partnering with Reurasia, a Philippine-based company involved in innovative energy solutions across Southeast Asia.

MinDA Chairperson Secretary Leo Magno welcomed the partnership between HDF and DOE.

“We in Mindanao are very excited about this endeavor. We hope that through the signing of this MoU, the projects that HDF has planned will come into fruition, benefitting not only Mindanao but the entire Philippines,” Sec. Magno said.

The MinDA chair reiterated the initiatives of the region on pursuing renewable energy during his speech at the July 24 kick-off of the Mindanao Development Forum held in Davao City.

“Preserving our planet requires proactive measures to protect the environment and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. Mindanao is leading the way in this critical mission by advancing the transition to renewable energy sources,” Sec. Magno said during his speech at the July 24 Mindanao Development Forum.

Meanwhile, the Department of Energy has hailed the signing of the MoU, citing it as a milestone towards a sustainable and resilient energy future. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla acknowledged the support of the French government for its help in the project.

“We also thank the Government of the Republic of France through the French Embassy in the Philippines for their unwavering support and assistance to the project as it will enhance the Philippines’ capacity to innovate and implement cutting-edge hydrogen technologies for the country’s energy sector,” Sec. Lotilla said.

At the the MoU signing (from left) H.E. Marie Fontanel, Ambassador of France to the Philippines, DoE Sec. Raphael Lotilla, MinDA Chair Sec. Leo Magno and HDF Energy Phils president Mathieu Geze

Mathieu Geze, president and director of HDF Energy Philippines Holdings Inc said the company is committed to accelerating their projects with the strong support of local and national stakeholders.

“To make these projects a reality, we need strong support from both local and national stakeholders. We are committed to accelerating these projects, and our ongoing engagements with partner Local Government Units (LGUs), Electric Cooperatives and consultants demonstrate our dedication to our goal of establishing 15 projects in the Philippines, valued at USD 1.5 billion. Ten of these projects are planned for implementation in Mindanao.” Geze said.

To jumpstart the goal, on Monday  (July 19) in Davao City, HDF signed three  memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with three local government units in Mindanao; Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Sur and Zamboanga City for the establishment of three green energy hydrogen power plants. (RVC/RGA/PIA11)

In other News
Skip to content