Australian-backed Firm to Build P3.3 Billion Solar Cell Plant in Batangas

MANILA, Philippines — Australian-backed renewable energy (RE) company Philippine Aurion Solar Technologies Inc. has invested over P3.34 billion in a solar cell manufacturing facility at the First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) in Sto. Tomas, Batangas. In a statement, FPIP said that Philippine Aurion’s 1.3-hectare plant would produce solar cells intended mainly for customers in the United States and Europe. As it expands in the country, Philippine Aurion is also looking to cater to other markets. Philippine Aurion’s manufacturing operations will be supported by more than 500 local professionals and technical workers. Beyond job creation, the firm’s manufacturing operations will enable the transfer of specialized manufacturing knowledge to Filipino workers. In addition, the firm’s facility is expected to support RE manufacturing growth in the country. “We are excited to establish our first manufacturing facility in the Philippines at FPIP. This investment reflects our confidence in the country’s growing RE sector and its skilled workforce and we look forward to contributing to the Philippines’ clean energy future,” Philippine Aurion president Huai Jin Yang said. Yutaro Kuryu, senior vice president for FPIP Industrial Business said that Philippine Aurion’s decision to set up manufacturing operations in the country reflects the type of investments that FPIP wants to attract. FPIP is targeting investments that bring new technology and long-term value to the country. “As the Philippines grows as a renewable energy manufacturing hub, we are glad to support Philippine Aurion as they build and scale their operations here,” he said.