Philippines’ DOE Celebrates Energization Of Cebu-Bohol Transmission Line, Enhancing Power Reliability

The Department of Energy (DOE) announced the successful energization of the transmission connection between Bohol and Cebu by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). The Dumanjug-Corella 230 kV Line 1 and Dumanjug 70 MVAR, energized on July 16, 2024, now connect Cebu to Bohol. With a 600 MW transfer capacity, the Cebu-Bohol 230 kV Interconnection Project will significantly enhance the reliability of the Bohol Grid by providing direct access to bulk power generation from Cebu, supplementing the existing Leyte-Bohol submarine cable.

This development is particularly significant for Bohol, where electricity demand has surged due to the influx of tourists attracted by its famous white-sand beaches and diving spots.

The project’s full completion, slated for December 2024, is expected to alleviate congestion in the Leyte-Bohol 138 kV interconnection, reducing high electricity costs for consumers in the region.

Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla emphasized the critical role of sufficient transmission capacity in fostering economic development. “Ensuring sufficient transmission capacity is crucial for the country’s economic development, as it promotes a reliable power supply that supports economic growth and investment,” Lotilla stated.

Last week, the President also inaugurated the Hermosa-San Jose 500 kV Transmission Project, a significant enhancement for power accessibility in the Luzon Grid, with 5,080 MW coming from existing power plants and 2,554 MW from committed power generation projects.

With a full transfer capacity of 8,000 MW, the Hermosa-San Jose Transmission Project will facilitate the transmission of power generation from a total of about 7,634 MW from existing and committed power plants in Bataan and Zambales to Metro Manila and other areas of Luzon.

According to the DOE’s list of existing and committed power projects as of April 2024, the additional 2,554 MW will come from 17 committed power generation projects expected to become operational within the next three years. These projects include the Mariveles Coal-Fired Power Plant Units 2 to 6, Masinloc Power Plant Units 4 and 5, Mariveles Hydroelectric Power Project, and several solar, wind, and battery energy storage systems.

The completion of the Hermosa-San Jose Transmission Project showcases the power of collaboration between public and private entities in ensuring a stable, reliable, and resilient power supply. “We recognize the efforts of the NGCP in completing this project and the assistance extended by various government agencies in overcoming permitting challenges that delayed the project,” added Secretary Lotilla.

The President also directed the DOE and the NGCP to complete nearly 70 transmission projects on schedule, as outlined in the Transmission Development Plan, including the Batangas Mindoro Interconnection Project and the Northern Luzon 230kV loop. “Meeting our increasing energy demand, encouraging technological advancement, and creating more employment opportunities for our people are paramount,” concluded the President.