Marking a significant leap in the country’s energy landscape, Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) inaugurated the first-of-its-kind hybrid Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Southeast Asia.
Built on a floating platform in Maco, Davao de Oro, this 49-megawatt (MW) facility represents a groundbreaking initiative by AboitizPower subsidiary Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI).
Boosting Grid Stability and Supporting Renewables
A BESS functions by storing electrical energy from the grid using batteries. This stored energy can then be released when needed to supplement supply or enhance the overall quality of electricity within the system.
The Davao de Oro BESS will complement TMI’s existing diesel engines by providing crucial ancillary services. These services ensure grid stability and transmission capacity, ultimately leading to a more reliable and uninterrupted supply of high-quality electricity.
Furthermore, the BESS is vital in integrating more renewable energy sources into the grid. As the use of solar and wind power increases, the BESS can partially offset their inherent variability, ensuring a more consistent and dependable power supply.
A Pioneering Approach for the Future
“This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant stride towards revolutionizing the Philippines’ energy landscape,” said AboitizPower Thermal Chief Operating Officer Ronaldo Ramos.
Ramos emphasized the BESS’s significance in addressing the evolving energy needs of the country. He highlighted the growing use of renewable resources, the development of a power reserves market, and the recently completed Mindanao-Visayas interconnection project – all of which will benefit from this state-of-the-art technology.
“The power barge that TMI currently operates has been in Maco, Davao de Oro since 1994. It was installed as part of the solution to address the then power crisis in Mindanao,” Ramos said. “Thirty years later, who would’ve thought that we’d still find ourselves in the same mission of supporting our beloved Mindanao, this time with an innovative twist and a different need to address – the reserve requirements of the grid.”
Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
The Department of Energy (DOE) commended AboitizPower’s efforts in this pioneering project.
“The BESS inauguration ceremony is a great milestone where we see a significant contribution to improving the quality of life of Filipinos through innovative solutions,” shared DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella in a video message.
“We recognize [AboitizPower’s] proactive efforts in the implementation of energy efficiency and conservation and renewable energy principles through a project that showcases the actualities of meaningful collaborations,” he added.
AboitizPower had shared its goal of achieving a balanced energy portfolio that supports the country’s transition to cleaner sources while ensuring energy security. This commitment is reflected in their target of building 3,700 MW of new renewable energy (RE) capacity, reaching 4,600 MW by 2030. Their RE projects encompass solar, geothermal, hydro, and soon, wind power.
Beyond renewables, AboitizPower is actively exploring low-carbon technologies such as liquified natural gas (LNG), nuclear power, and smart power plants, solidifying their position as a leader in the country’s sustainable energy transformation.
About AboitizPower Thermal Business Group
The AboitizPower Thermal Business Group manages and operates the thermal power generation assets of Aboitiz Power Corporation. Our thermal assets provide much-needed reliable power to the Philippine grid. Our mission is the same across all our facilities — to advance business and communities by providing reliable, reasonably-priced, and responsibly-produced power. Together with you as our partners, we can continue to Transform Energy for a Better World.
About Therma Marine, Inc.
Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI) operates two 100 MW oil-fired power barges in Maco, Davao de Oro (Mobile 1) and Nasipit, Agusan del Norte (Mobile 2). Mobile 1 was constructed in 1993, while Mobile 2 was constructed in 1994. Both have been under the ownership of TMI since 2010.
TMI recently completed building its first Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Mobile 1 to help improve the quality of electricity and stability of the grid. Built on a floating platform, which is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, its 49 MW capacity will help ensure grid stability in Mindanao through sufficient ancillary services, especially during grid fluctuation and supply limitations.
