RP needs $1.4B to develop hydro power program over next 10 years

The government will need some $1.4 billion over the next 10 years (2002 to 2011) to finance the development of hydro energy in the country.

Based on the Philippine Energy Plan for 2002-2011, the country’s hydro resources can generate up to 13,426-megawatts (MW) of electricity.

Under the energy plan, some 1,300 MW of large and mini-hydropower projects, or approximately 10 percent of the country’s hydropower potential, is projected to be added and connected to the main and small island grids.

At present, the country has a total of 2,521 MW of installed hydropower capacity or 19 percent of the total installed generation capacity.

"The development of our country’s hydropower potential is vital as we continue to look for alternative sources of renewable energy to meet the growth in energy needs. We have to promote hydropower development because this is a renewable form of indigenous energy, and is environmental friendly," Energy Secretary Vincent S. Perez said.

He said hydropower sources will boost the government’s long-term program of energy sufficiency.

According to Perez there are a number of private firms which have expressed interest in undertaking hydroelectric projects in the rural areas.

Recently, Smith Bell-RESCO signed a memorandum of understanding with Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative for the sale of generated power should further studies prove the viability of hydropower potentials in Zamboanga del Norte.

Another power firm, Camiguin Alternative Renewable Energy Inc., has applied for a permit to conduct development studies. The firm’s application is currently being processed by the Department of Energy (DOE).

A Japanese firm, Tokyo Electric Power Services Co. has also proposed a development study program for hydro potential in the islands of Iliran, Leyte and Samar.

Another Japanese firm, Kyushu Electric Co. in partnership with the Provincial government of Palawan is at present completing the feasibility study of the Batang-batang mini-hydro project in Palawan.

The Philippine HydroPower Corp. is the largest mini-hydro power company in the country with 14 mini-hydro plants totaling 39 MW in installed capacity.