Solar energy to replace genset in filmmaking?

Is the local film industry ready to embrace the idea of sourcing out renewable energy through solar power in the production of movies in the urban centers or in the remotest areas of the country where there are deficient electric supply?

This is the question being posed to producers, moneyed or not, studio or independent ones.

With the current fuel crisis where everything is skyrocketing in prices that affect every industry, sustainable energy can be an alternative to expensive gas rates.

At the launch of the Integra R.E.’s new corporate identity known as “Integra R.E.- Unveiling the Future of Trusted Energy” held at the SM Convention Center in Pasay City that coincided with the Solar & Storage Live Philippines 2026, Integra R.E. Managing Director Junrhey Castro affirmed the use of renewable energy such as theirs in the filmmaking and other entertainment activities in the multimedia industry.

“Technically yes, the way a movie is being shot has the same power sources—generators and generators can eventually be replaced by batteries powered by solar energy,” Castro informed entertainment journalist Jeff Fernando.

As a matter of fact, there are indie producers and directors who are resourceful enough to adapt to solar energy for principal photography and even post-production.

Controversial Fil-Briton filmmaker Jowee Morel is open to using solar power to shoot and do post-productions.

“If situation calls for emergency solutions, I can shift to solar panels especially in remote locations of our shoots,” said Jowee. 

In the use of solar energy, genset on the sets are dispensable.

Sustainable energy is, indeed, the future.

“For the Philippines, renewable energy is not only about sustainability. It is about reliability, competitiveness, and energy security,” Castro said. (Boy Villasanta)