Close to 7GW projects seen boosting capacity

The Department of Energy (DoE) expects approximately 6,841 megawatts (MW) of new power projects to move forward this year, a step crucial in ensuring a stable electricity supply nationwide.

Energy Secretary Raphael Perpetuo Lotilla, citing the latest data on the committed list of power projects as of November 2024, recently reported that Luzon recorded about 5,754 MW of committed projects, along with a 230 MW battery energy storage system (BESS).

In the Visayas, 855 MW is set to come online. Meanwhile, in Mindanao, 232 MW of committed capacities, along with an additional 100 MW from BESS projects, are also expected to progress.

Committed projects refer to those that have secured financial closing with investors or bankers.

Outlook positive

As such, Lotilla emphasized the improved energy outlook for 2025, citing notable advancements in generation capacity and transmission infrastructure compared to the previous year.

“We are in a much better situation this year... not only in terms of new generation capacity but particularly in terms of the transmission lines that are vital to bring the supply to the market,” he said.

However, he acknowledged challenges remain. “We are only as strong as our weakest links and our weak links are everywhere,” Lotilla said.