MANILA — Axelum Resources Corp has signed an agreement with renewable energy firm First Gen Corp. to power its Misamis Oriental facility with clean energy.

Under the deal, First Gen will supply up to 5.2 megawatts of geothermal electricity to Axelum’s manufacturing operations in Medina. The power will come from the Mt. Apo Geothermal Power Plant, operated by First Gen’s subsidiary, Energy Development Corp.

Axelum President and COO Henry Raperoga said the partnership supports the company’s broader sustainability efforts. 

“This initiative forms an integral part of our core sustainability agenda and demonstrates our serious commitment to building climate resiliency," Raperoga said.

The agreement was made possible under the Retail Competition and Open Access provision of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001, which allows qualified businesses to choose their electricity providers.

First Gen Chief Engagement Officer Carlo Vega welcomed the partnership. 

“Geothermal power is the only RE technology that can run 24/7 and can support major manufacturing operations,” said Vega.

Axelum, known for its zero-waste coconut processing and reforestation initiatives, holds multiple international quality certifications. Its operations use coconut shells to fuel boilers, contributing to its circular economy goals.

First Gen operates 13 geothermal plants nationwide and manages over 1,600 megawatts of renewable capacity, including hydro, wind, and solar, alongside 2,017 megawatts of natural gas plants to ensure power reliability.