National Grid Corp. of the Philippines is on track to complete the reinforcement of the Mindanao transmission backbone within the first quarter of 2019, a few months ahead of the June 2019 target.
NGCP said in a statement the Mindanao 230 kiloVolt (kV) Transmission Backbone Project would address the anticipated addition of bulk power generation in the area by strengthening the existing capacity of the Matanao-Toril-Bunawan and the Balo-i-Maramag-Bunawan transmission lines from 138 kV to 230 kV.
The project also involves the upgrading of various key substations to accommodate the line and additional power supply.
NGCP said the transmission backbone, once in place, would accommodate renewable and conventional power plants in the northern and southern parts of Mindanao, thus, ensuring stable supply from Lanao del Norte, passing through Agusan del Sur all the way to Davao del Sur.
“With the completion of the project, large generating plants such as GNPower and SMC (San Miguel Corp.) will be able to connect to the grid, mitigating the once known vulnerabilities of hydropower and maximizing the generating capability of incoming plants. This means that we can maintain the quality and reliability of power which Mindanaoans will be able to enjoy. We are excited for the projects lined up for Mindanao as this will create a solid energy corridor in the island,” NGCP said.
It said the project served as an integral part of the Visayas-Mindanao Interconnection Project, which would complete the link between the country’s power grids, allowing power between the major islands to be shared, and ensuring the reliability and stability of the grid.
The VMIP has already received provisional approval from the Energy Regulatory Commission. It is due for completion by 2020 based on the target set by the Energy Department.
Upon completion of all major NGCP projects in Mindanao, any excess generation will go to Visayas and vice versa, effectively supporting the power requirements of all three islands.
“The Mindanao Backbone Project is key to the VMIP because it provides the transmission highway to accommodate the capacity which the interconnection needs for it to be fully utilized by both Visayas and Mindanao,” said NGCP.