NGCP sees early completion of Mindanao grid project

FILE: National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) (Photo: National Grid Corporation of the Philippines/Facebook)

ZAMBOANGA CITY — The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) announced that the reinforcement of the Mindanao transmission backbone project is expected to be completed within the first quarter of 2019, months ahead of its target completion in June 2019.

In a statement, the NGCP said the Mindanao 230 kilo-volt (KV) Transmission Backbone Project would address the anticipated addition of bulk power generation in the area by strengthening the existing capacity of the Matanao-Toril-Bunawan and the Balo-i-Maramag-Bunawan transmission lines from 138-KV to 230-KV.

Once completed, the NGCP said the transmission backbone would accommodate renewable and conventional power plants in the northern and southern parts of Mindanao, which would in turn ensure stable and continuous power from Lanao del Norte, passing through Agusan del Sur, all the way to Davao del Sur.

It said that large generating plants such as the GNPower and SMC would be able to connect to the grid, mitigating the once known vulnerabilities of hydro power and maximizing the general capability of incoming plants with the completion of the project.

“This means that we can maintain the quality and reliability of power which Mindanaoans will be able to enjoy. We are excited for the projects lined up for Mindanao as this will create a solid energy corridor in the island,” the NGCP said.

The project also serves as an integral part of the Visayas-Mindanao Interconnection Project (VMIP), which will complete the link between the country’s power grids, allowing power between the major islands to be shared, and ensuring the reliability and stability of the grid.

Upon completion of all major NGCP projects for Mindanao, any excess generation will be able to travel to Visayas and vice versa, effectively supporting the power requirements of all three islands.

“The Mindanao Backbone project is key to the VMIP because it provides the transmission highway to accommodate the capacity which the interconnection needs for it to be fully utilized by both Visayas and Mindanao,” the NGCP said.

NGCP emphasized the support of the local government units (LGU) in fast-tracking the implementation of its grid enhancement and expansion projects.

Various key substations will also be upgraded in order to accommodate the line and the additional power expected to flow through, according to the NGCP. (PNA)