Village Connect
SM Prime Holdings, Inc., a leading integrated property developer in the Philippines, received regional acclaim at the 2024 ASEAN Energy Awards for its innovative approach to energy efficiency. SM City Butuan, opened in November 2020, was honored under the New and Existing Building category, representing the Philippines with a Department of Energy (DOE) endorsement.
The recognition highlights SM Prime’s sustained commitment to energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) across its developments. “This award reflects our dedication to building sustainable spaces nationwide. By championing energy-efficient practices, we actively contribute to a greener future,” said Hans Sy Jr., President of SM Engineering and Design Development and SM Group sustainability advocate.
SM City Butuan exemplifies SM Prime’s dual approach to sustainability, incorporating passive and active energy-saving strategies. Passive designs include optimal building orientation, the use of low-emissivity glass for shading, and an Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS) for thermal efficiency, significantly reducing reliance on artificial cooling. Active features include a water-cooled chiller system with variable frequency drives and 100% LED lighting, ensuring maximum energy efficiency.
This recognition builds on previous accolades, including SM City Butuan’s 2023 Energy Efficiency Excellence Award from the DOE. SM Prime’s broader efforts include equipping 32 malls with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, generating a combined 40 MW of renewable energy, and contributing 259 MW to the DOE’s Interruptible Load Program, the largest private sector contribution.
With an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, SM Prime continues to lead sustainability efforts through innovative design and operational excellence, setting a benchmark for energy efficiency in Southeast Asia.
