Hedcor: Celebrating 45 Years Of Renewable Energy Leadership

Hedcor Inc. proudly marks its 45th anniversary this month.

Photo Insert: At Hedcor's state-of-the-art National Operations Control Center (NOCC), skilled engineers seamlessly orchestrate the operation, monitoring, and control of over 20 pioneering renewable energy facilities, strategically dispersed across the nation, from a single centralized location.

A subsidiary of AboitizPower, Hedcor, now a leading renewable energy company, aims to become the largest Renewable Asset (RE) manager in the Philippines and the ASEAN region.

As part of its ambitious expansion plans, Hedcor envisions operating at least 40 clean energy facilities within the next 7 years.

Established in 1978, Hedcor has become one of the Philippines' foremost renewable energy companies, specializing in harnessing indigenous and sustainable energy sources, particularly run-of-river hydropower systems.

The name "Hedcor," which originated from the abbreviation of Hydro Electric Development Corporation (HEDCOR), began when Ernesto Aboitiz developed a profound interest in hydropower plants during a visit to Baguio City.

This pivotal moment led to Hedcor securing a 20-year contract to operate the Asin Hydro Power Plants in Tuba, Benguet.

In 1979, Hedcor became one of the pioneering companies to explore hydropower generation areas following the implementation of Executive Order 215, which encouraged private entities to invest in power projects.

In 2005, Hedcor achieved a de facto merger with North Mini Hydro Corporation and underwent a name change to Hedcor, Inc. Additionally, Benguet Hydro Corporation, a non-asset company, merged with Hedcor, further strengthening its position in the market.

Eventually, in 2009, Hedcor became a wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower, solidifying its place within the Aboitiz group of companies, with a focus on developing additional hydro, solar, and wind power plants that will contribute significantly to the country's renewable energy goals.

With this impressive track record, Hedcor currently operates 22 hydropower facilities across Luzon and Mindanao.

These hydropower plants have a combined installed capacity exceeding 280 megawatts (MW) and are strategically located in regions such as Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Benguet, Davao City, Davao Del Sur, and Bukidnon.

In addition to hydropower plants, Hedcor has expanded its portfolio to the Visayas, venturing into solar energy generation in 2021 through the operation of San Carlos Sun Power, Inc. (SacaSun) in Negros Occidental, boasting an impressive peak capacity of 59 MW.

Emmanuel Rubio, President and CEO of AboitizPower, expressed his confidence in Hedcor's continued success, stating, "Building on its 45 years of experience and now as part of the Aboitiz Techglomerate, Hedcor will continue to be integral in AboitizPower's efforts to meet the country's growing demand for sustainable, affordable, and reliable electricity."

Rubio further added, "As the Philippines sets its sights on integrating 35% and 50% renewable energy in its energy mix by 2030 and 2040, respectively, AboitizPower and Hedcor are committed to supporting these goals by expanding their clean energy portfolio, investing in innovation, and leveraging advanced technologies."

Last year, the company launched its National Operations Control Center (NOCC), an advanced facility that allows for centralized operation, monitoring, and control of 21 run-of-river plants operated by Hedcor, as well as the SacaSun solar farm.

The NOCC is the first of its kind in the Philippines, heightening Hedcor’s competitiveness, through the consolidation of real-time data monitoring and analysis, equipment control, alarm system management, and plant operation reporting, all while ensuring enhanced operational efficiencies while minimizing technical errors.

"To remain competitive, we optimize our current assets, people, and resources. Adopting new technologies will ensure efficiency, helping to implement operational excellence strategies necessary for future business growth," stated Rolando Pacquiao, President and Chief Operating Officer of Hedcor.

Pacquiao also emphasized that Hedcor's commitment extends beyond renewable energy generation. The company actively celebrates and supports the rich culture and traditions of indigenous peoples (IP) residing in the communities where it operates.

"We know that we are only as strong as the bond we have with our community. We draw our strength from the homes and businesses we’ve sustained with the energy we provide,” Pacquiao stressed.

Recently, Hedcor spearheaded the renovation of tribal halls for IPs in Bukidnon and donated infrastructure worth P10 million to IPs in La Trinidad, Benguet. These projects provide much-needed venues for tribe gatherings and meetings, fostering a stronger bond between Hedcor and the local communities.

Environmental stewardship is also at the forefront of Hedcor's mission. Over the past two decades, the company has planted more than 3.5 million trees with an impressive 85% survival rate.

Additionally, Hedcor has successfully implemented its #NoToSingleUsePlastics campaign for five consecutive years, banning the use of single-use plastics in all company events. The company actively practices segregation and recycling within its premises, promoting a greener and more sustainable environment.

As Hedcor celebrates its 45th anniversary, its remarkable journey, commitment to renewable energy, community engagement, and environmental initiatives inspire confidence in a greener and more sustainable future for the Philippines.

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