Mindanao is advancing its energy sector with diverse projects spanning renewable and non-renewable sources. These initiatives aim to meet growing power demand, ensure a balanced energy mix, and strengthen energy security for Mindanawons and the country. This wrap-up highlights key 2024 projects and their long-term benefits for the region and beyond.
Hydrogen Power Plants
Company: Hydrogène de France (HDF Energy) is a French company leading in the hydrogen sector, focused on developing large-scale hydrogen infrastructure.
Locations: Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Zamboanga
Overview: HDF Energy is set to invest $1 billion in constructing renewable hydrogen power plants in Mindanao. The plants will harness clean energy to produce hydrogen, a promising alternative for power generation, especially in areas currently lacking reliable electricity.
Significance: The project will provide a sustainable energy solution to off-grid areas in Mindanao, significantly improving power access in rural regions. It also seeks to fortify Mindanao’s energy supply and address the challenge of power shortages.
Sangali Diesel Power Plant
Company: San Miguel Consolidated Power Corporation (SCPC) operates as a fully owned subsidiary of SMC Global Power Holdings Corporation.
Location: Bgy. Sangali, Zamboanga City
Overview: This gas turbine power plant features two 28-MW modular gas turbines, designed for flexible and efficient power generation to meet growing regional power demand. Installed on a 10,000-square-meter site, the plant includes a containerized balance of plant and connects to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ (NGCP) grid via a 69-kV substation.
Significance: The project seeks to address energy challenges in the Zamboanga Peninsula. By deploying modular diesel-fired generators, it stabilizes voltage, improves grid reliability, and mitigates power fluctuations caused by renewable energy intermittency and outages. This project ensures a steady power supply, bolsters the grid against operational instability, and supports regional economic growth by meeting rising energy demands and maintaining grid efficiency in northwestern Mindanao.
Southeast Asia’s First 49-Megawatt Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
Company: Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) is a leading Philippine energy company focused on developing sustainable and reliable power generation solutions.
Location: Maco, Davao de Oro, Philippines
Overview: AboitizPower, through its subsidiary Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI), inaugurated Southeast Asia’s first 49-MW hybrid BESS, built on a floating platform. This innovative system stores electricity to enhance grid stability, support renewable energy integration, and provide essential ancillary services. By complementing TMI’s existing diesel engines, the BESS ensures a more reliable and high-quality power supply. The system helps meet reserve requirements and offsets intermittencies from renewable energy sources.
Significance: This hybrid BESS is a crucial step in addressing the Philippines’ evolving energy needs, particularly with the increasing share of renewable energy. It also supports the Mindanao-Visayas interconnection project and the power reserves market, enhancing grid stability and efficiency.
Conel Solar Power Project
Company: Embrace Power1 Corporation (ENPC-1) is a company located in Purok Guadalupe, Barangay Conel in General Santos City.
Location: General Santos City, South Cotabato
Overview: The project, included in the Department of Energy’s 2020 list of private-initiated power projects in Mindanao, represents a ₱16-billion investment. Spanning 61 hectares in Barangay Conel and 59 hectares in Barangay Mabuhay, the initiative incorporates agrovoltaics (combination of agriculture and solar power generation) technology through a partnership with a Croatian energy firm.
Significance: The project is set to create 1,500 jobs during its 12-month construction phase. In addition to building the solar farm, ENPC-1 plans to cultivate upland rice and ginger, and establish a green tea plantation in the area. According to Yan Amante, president of ENPC-1, the use of agrovoltaics technology for the project will be one of the country’s first implementations of this innovative approach.
Underground Cabling and Pole Relocation
Company: Davao Light and Power Company (Davao Light), the third-largest electric utility in the Philippines. In 2020, Davao Light unveiled Calinan District’s first digital substation, enhancing Davao City’s electrical network to improve efficiency and service reliability.
Location: Major streets in Davao City
Overview: Davao Light conducted underground cabling along key streets. The project includes removing overhead utility lines and relocating utility poles in affected areas. This effort also involves road and sidewalk restoration, with coordination between Davao Light and other utility companies to meet the city’s standards.
Significance: This project aims to modernize the city’s power infrastructure, improving reliability and aesthetics by reducing visual clutter from power lines. It supports the city’s growth, enhances electricity distribution, and is vital for major events like Araw ng Dabaw and Kadayawan Festival. Safety is also improved by minimizing risks associated with exposed power lines and poles, reducing potential hazards from storms and accidents.
These power projects play a crucial role in ensuring a stable energy future. As these projects unfold, they promise to enhance grid stability and contribute to the overall economic growth and quality of life for Mindanao’s residents.
Sources:
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/800-pole-relocation-requests-from-dpwh-davao-light#google_vignette
https://tribune.net.ph/2024/07/20/mindanao-attracts-multi-billion-dollar-energy-investments
https://balitang-mindanao.info/french-energy-firm-to-boost-mindanao-renewables/
https://doe.gov.ph/sites/default/files/pdf/electric_power/03_Mindanao%20Committed_30aug2024.pdf
https://eia.emb.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/SMCPC-power-plant-PDS-Final_v2-1.pdf
https://www.manilatimes.net/2024/10/09/regions/solar-farm-to-rise-in-general-santos-city/1981200
https://business.inquirer.net/470336/french-energy-firm-to-put-up-renewable-projects-in-mindanao
