Busuanga Island, once plagued by daily four-to-six-hour blackouts that stifled economic activity, secured a new 15-year power supply agreement to meet its growing energy demands.
The agreement between Busuanga Island Electric Cooperative Inc. (BISELCO) and Vivant Energy’s Calamian Islands Power Corp. (CIPC) will provide 24 megawatts of contracted capacity for Busuanga and Coron, ensuring a stable power supply for homes and businesses.
CIPC’s entry in 2013 ended the island’s frequent blackouts, fueling a tourism boom and growth in local industries. This expansion increased energy demand, necessitating additional capacity.
The new agreement, which builds on a partnership that began in 2011, is subject to regulatory approvals.
“This new PSA will bring great opportunity for the Calamian Group of Islands for its infrastructure development. It will pave the way for a continuous and reliable power supply, ensuring fully lit households and businesses throughout Calamian,” BISELCO general manager Ruth Fortes said.
CIPC president Eric Omamalin noted the agreement’s long-term benefits.
“Vivant Energy is committed to creating solutions to our changing world by delivering reliable energy systems. Our partnership with BISELCO ensures that the Calamian Islands have a stable and sustainable power supply to support economic growth and enhance everyday life. This agreement reflects our dedication to investing in long-term, adaptive solutions that empower communities and drive progress,” he said.
The 15-year agreement highlights collaboration between the private and cooperative sectors, aiming to provide long-term energy solutions for underserved areas.