DOE forecasts May and June as power supply problematic months, Luzon okay for the next four weeks

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MANILA — Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Jericho Petilla on Tuesday said that May and June might be the power supply problematic months for this year.

”We looked on the fact that May is the hottest month of the year, historically so we have to prepare for it. That has a forecast demand of 9,000 to 9,100 MW. Take note, we asked some of the power plants not to maintain on May, they were rescheduled for June, so we now have to be on the lookout for June, Petilla said.

He noted that June will be a problematic month without the rains, which might elevate the capacity of the hydro power plants.

”Most people are saying the summer is late and Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) said that the rainy season is early, but then again there is also a possibility that summer is really late and maybe by June we have no rains yet,” he said.

The DOE head added that they are also anticipating that the dry season might be extended until July.

”Given the climate change we have right now, there’s a possibility that there will be no rains until July. It may be remote, but we have to prepare for it as well,” Petilla said.

He stressed their power outlook might also move with the abrupt weather.

Currently, the DOE secretary expects that Luzon will still have sustainable power for the next four weeks due to the unexpected and sustained capacity of hydro power plants.

”The hydros are performing well, and at this time the hydros are supposed to be starting to dry up,” he said.

Meanwhile, the PAGASA has cautioned the public that the record high temperature experienced Monday will continue for this week.