Upgrade Energy Philippines: Towards a Sustainable, Renewable Energy Future

Upgrade Energy Philippines (UGEP) project on a chemical facility in the Philippines.
ADI provided first loss equity to SEACEF II in 2023 and engaged extensively to improve their fund offering, helping de-risk the investment and raise USD127 million at first close. SEACEF used the capital to invest in Upgrade Energy Philippines.
Upgrade Energy Philippines (UGEP), established in 2015, is at the forefront of the net zero transition. The company specializes in solar energy projects, focusing on rooftop and ground-mounted installations for commercial and industrial (C&I) facilities like office buildings and industrial complexes. This sector is rapidly growing as businesses aim to reduce carbon footprints and energy costs. C&I solar installations offer businesses energy savings and enhanced sustainability profiles. UGEP also operates as an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor.
UGEP’s renewable energy initiatives are reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. To date, UGEP has completed 20 distributed rooftop solar projects totaling 26.3 MWp, split between lease contracts and EPC projects. The completion of the 13.8 MW Merbau Solar Project, the biggest solar rooftop project in a single facility, underscores its successful partnerships with major energy and power players in the country. With SEACEF II’s investment, UGEP targets 100 MWp in distributed solar and 500 MWp in utility-scale solar by 2028. This expansion aims to reduce 5.8 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MTCO2e) over 20 years, comparable to cutting the emissions of 1.5 coal-fired power plants annually.
UGEP is distinctive as a women-founded, led, and majority-owned business. Ruth Yu- Owen, the President and CEO, brings almost 20 years of experience in renewable energy, having developed wind, hydro, and solar projects. Women constitute 25% of UGEP’s workforce and 46% of its management team, reflecting a strong commitment to gender diversity.
UGEP’s efforts highlight the nexus between gender and climate, showcasing how renewable energy investments can simultaneously advance gender equity and climate goals. Several barriers must be addressed to enhance women’s participation in the clean energy sector. According to an IRENA survey [1], the primary barriers include cultural and social norms, lack of skills and training, and security issues, particularly in remote field locations. Moreover, viewing women predominantly as suitable for sales roles, rather than technical or engineering positions, limits their potential contribution. Addressing these barriers, particularly by ensuring women’s safety and opportunities in technical roles, is crucial for their sustained participation and advancement.