Over 1 GW new capacity added to Philippine power grid

MANILA, Philippines — The national grid has received a major boost following the activation of 956 megawatts of new power projects and 160 MW of storage facilities, moving President Marcos closer to his 2028 energy goal.

The new power supply comes from 14 newly commissioned plants — 12 renewable energy, one oil-based and one natural gas-fired — across the country, according to the Department of Energy (DOE).

This capacity boost aligns with Marcos’ directive in his fourth State of the Nation Address in July to fast-track the construction of 200 power plants over the next three years.

“Every megawatt we add to the grid is not just a number on paper; it is electricity for homes, power for businesses and confidence for investors,” Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said.

With peak electricity demand projected to grow by around 5.3 percent annually until 2028, the DOE is counting on these projects, especially renewables, to ensure energy security.

Energy storage systems, meanwhile, are expected to enhance grid stability by storing excess power during off-peak hours and releasing it during periods of high demand.

“By combining renewable energy projects with flexible conventional plants and modern energy storage, we are building an energy system that is cleaner, more reliable and more resilient,” Garin said.

Aside from helping meet peak demand, the new projects are poised to reduce the risk of supply shortfalls and provide greater flexibility in managing both baseload and variable loads.

According to the DOE, the newly activated facilities are just the first wave of projects under the 200-power-plant directive, with more capacity additions expected in the coming years.

The agency also affirmed its commitment to working closely with the private sector, regulators and stakeholders to streamline permitting processes and ensure a reliable and sustainable energy supply.

Earlier, Marcos noted that the 200-power-plant target aims not only to address immediate power needs but also to prepare the Philippines for future energy demand and support industrial growth.