Sweden is renewing efforts to boost collaboration with the Philippines on sustainable industrial development, highlighting technology-driven solutions that help local industries cut energy costs and boost competitiveness.

The Embassy of Sweden in the Philippines said Wednesday that Swedish companies SKF and Atlas Copco joined government officials and industry leaders during the Swedish Perspectives in Energy Efficiency forum in Manila. Discussions focused on how energy-efficient technologies can support manufacturing, food and beverage, and power sector operations.

Swedish Ambassador Anna Ferry said energy efficiency remains a crucial component of industrial resilience.

“Energy efficiency is a critical factor for competitiveness and resilience. Sweden’s experience shows that industrial modernization and sustainability can go hand in hand. We are long-term partners with the Philippines, sharing this expertise,” she added.

Tech-driven solutions

The Philippines continues to face one of the highest electricity rates in Asia at around 18 US cents per kilowatt-hour, creating strong incentives to adopt modern, energy-saving solutions.

Although the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act has been enacted, adoption by industries has been gradual due to financing gaps and fragmented demand.

According to a Business Sweden report, the manufacturing and food and beverage sectors account for roughly 80 percent of industrial energy consumption, highlighting the potential benefits of targeted upgrades.

These may include aggregated procurement, investment-grade energy audits, and financing partnerships that allow industries to recover costs through operational savings.

Swedish companies are positioning themselves as partners in this “green shift,” offering tools to improve energy use, extend equipment lifespan, and support circularity across the supply chain.

Supporting greener procurement

A panel discussion featuring officials from the Department of Energy (DOE), the Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance, and Swedish firms underscored the importance of sustainability-oriented procurement practices.

DOE Director Patrick Aquino said the government continues to prioritize energy efficiency programs nationwide.

“Our policies under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act provide a strong foundation, but real impact comes when government and industry work hand in hand to implement solutions on the ground,” he said.

Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance president Alexander Ablaza underscored the role of energy service companies in bridging technical and financing barriers for businesses seeking to upgrade their systems.

Representing Swedish companies, SKF’s Jesus Christopher Chan said clients now look beyond financial gains, seeking integrated solutions that enhance performance while reducing energy use.

Atlas Copco’s George Lapat added that aligning company offerings with customer sustainability goals helps build long-term partnerships.

Continuing innovation

Sweden allocates 3.5 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) to research and development, with most investments driven by the private sector. Swedish companies are recognized globally for advancements in energy efficiency, transportation, and decarbonization technologies.

Through continued collaboration with Philippine industries, Team Sweden aims to drive innovation, support greener growth, and expand access to sustainable solutions across the country. (PNA)