ERC greenlights three NGCP grid upgrades
By Gabriell Christel Galang – Nov 19, 2024 04:44 PM
from Manila Bulletin
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has approved three projects by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) aimed at enhancing the reliability and stability of the transmission grid in Luzon and Visayas.
In a statement, NGCP said the approved projects include the Northern Luzon 230 kV Loop Project, the Bolo-Balaoan 500 kV transmission line project, and the Nabas-Caticlan-Boracay transmission line project.
This approval from the ERC paves the way for further development of these initiatives.
Monalisa Dimalanta, ERC chairperson, stated that these approvals will significantly benefit the country’s electricity supply.
“It is thus critical for the NGCP to ensure the efficient and timely completion of the projects so we can further boost the ability of our Grid to absorb new power capacities needed to meet the growing demand of our communities, businesses, and industries,” she added.
The Bolo-Balaoan transmission line, valued at P17.09 billion, is set to complete construction by November 2026.
Once operational, this line will serve as the backbone of the northwest region of Luzon, enhancing the transmission network and facilitating the integration of offshore wind power, other renewable energy sources, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects.
In addition, the Northern Luzon loop project aims to upgrade the existing transmission corridor and optimize the generation potential in the Northern Luzon provinces, including Cagayan, Kalinga, Apayao, and Ilocos Norte. This project is valued at P16.8 billion and is expected to be completed by March 2028.
The Visayas region will also benefit from an improved connection through the Nabas-Caticlan-Boracay transmission project.
With an investment of P4.2 billion, this initiative aims to address the overloading issues in the Panay Islands. The facilities targeted for improvement include the Nabas Substation, the Nabas-Caticlan 69 kV transmission line, the Caticlan-Boracay transmission line, and the Manoc-Manoc 69 kV Load End Substation.
The NGCP is required to complete these developments by May 2025.
