Driven by rising temperatures and increased use of cooling appliances, the Department of Energy (DoE) expects peak electricity demand this summer to surpass last year’s levels.

DoE projections indicate Luzon’s peak demand could reach 14,769 megawatts (MW), up from 14,016 MW recorded on 22 April 2024. In the Visayas, demand is expected to rise to 3,111 MW from 2,641 MW on 21 May, while Mindanao’s peak could increase to 2,789 MW from 2,577 MW on 22 May.

To ease pressure on the grid, new power projects under testing and commissioning are expected to add 1,890 MW in Luzon and 193 MW in the Visayas. The Luzon-Visayas and Visayas-Mindanao high-voltage direct current interconnections will also improve supply availability, allowing capacity sharing of 250 MW and 450 MW, respectively.

Weather phenomena to equalize

Meanwhile, the onset of La Niña may help moderate temperatures, while continued water releases from the Pantabangan and Magat dams are likely to support power generation in Luzon.

To maintain grid stability, the DoE is urging households, businesses, and government offices to adopt demand-side management strategies, such as shifting high-energy activities away from peak hours — typically from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The agency also advises consumers to set air conditioners between 24 degrees to 26 degrees centigrade, use energy-efficient appliances, and maximize natural ventilation.