Visayas grid still short of 45MW

CEBU, Philippines - Power transmission utility and system operator National Grid Corporation of the Philippines reported that the Visayas grid has a generation deficiency of 45 megawatts although Salcon Power’s Cebu Thermal Power Plant Unit 1 is operational and already loaded with 48MW.

This is because Unit 2 of the said power plant, with a rated capacity of 55 MW is under preventive maintenance shutdown. Estimated completion date of maintenance works is on March 7.

NGCP also reported that Luzon has a generation deficiency of 478MW which attributed to the shutdown of two major plants.

The Mindanao grid continues to experience generation deficiency of up to 390MW yesterday which is attributed mainly to limited available capacities from hydropower plants, most of which have water reservoirs that are drying up due to the El Niño.

NGCP said that it will continue to monitor power grid conditions.

As system operator, it operates the power system or grid in accordance with the Philippine Grid Code. It is also the country’s only utility responsible for transmitting high-voltage power from generators to distributors.

NGCP clarified that it does not own nor operate and maintain any power generation and distribution facilities. — Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/BRP   (FREEMAN NEWS)