THE National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) is making significant investments of P6.47 billion to enhance its substation facilities across the country, aiming to ensure optimal performance of the power grid.
NGCP has initiated an ongoing substation reliability project and improvements, which have been submitted to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for approval.
While some projects implemented since 2016 are awaiting provisional approval from the ERC, NGCP has decided to proceed with the upgrades due to operational requirements, deferring the recovery approval issue for later resolution.
, NGCP management stated, “Our priority has and will always be doing what is best for the public. Financial considerations can take a back seat and be addressed later,” said NGCP Government Relations and Regional Affairs Lead Specialist Mae Roselle L. Curiano, Emphasizing NGCP commitment to the public.
NGCP seeks to address any misconceptions about unfair rates and assures the public that their dedication to serving the people remains steadfast, according to Curiano adding that with adherence to the legal and regulatory framework of their concession and franchise.
Since assuming transmission operations in 2009, NGCP has invested P3.289 billion in upgrading 15 substations and converter stations, including locations such as Taytay, Binan, Quezon, Abaga, Mexico, San Jose, Sucat, Compostela, Davao, Ormoc, Naga, Araneta, Agus 2, Calaca, Agus 6, and Tiwi A and C.
“These improvements cater to the growing demand for power and enhance system reliability,” Curiano said.
Furthermore, Curiano said that NGCP has undertaken power transformer replacements to modernize outdated transformers installed prior to the privatization of the transmission grid.
Between 2018 and 2021, a total of 33 power transformers were replaced, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of substation operations, according to Curiano.
Out of these replacements, 12 were in North Luzon, 4 in the National Capital Region (NCR), 5 in South Luzon, 3 in Visayas, and 9 in Mindanao, with a combined equipment cost of US$37.7 million or P1.8 billion.
Additionally, NGCP delivered 14 additional power transformers, valued at US$14.6 million or P764 million, to 6 substations in North Luzon, 5 in South Luzon, 1 in Visayas, and 2 in Mindanao.
To ensure preparedness for potential man-made or natural disasters that could disrupt power transmission, NGCP has procured mobile transformer units.
These units can be swiftly transported, installed, and energized within a region in less than 36 hours, enabling the rapid restoration of power to affected areas.
NGCP has already delivered four portable transformer units, worth US$12.1 million or P612 million, to substations in Mexico (Pampanga), Daraga (Albay), Cadiz (Bacolod), and South Cotabato.
“Through these extensive upgrades, NGCP aims to continuously enhance substation operations, ensuring efficient and reliable power delivery while investing in cutting-edge technology to better serve their customers,” said Curiano.(with a report from NGCP/PIA-10)
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