Natgas plants’ shutdowns set Luzon power alert
According to DoE, the EERI plant is expected to reconnect to the grid by 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, while SPPC Block 1 will synchronize by 9 p.m. By Monday morning, both facilities will return to full capacity at 1,350 MW, up from the current 1,300 MW.
Luzon is expected to have a thin electricity reserve over the weekend when two major natural gas power plants, with a total capacity of 1,300 megawatts (MW) undergo scheduled maintenance.
The Department of Energy (DoE) said Friday that the South Premiere Power Corp. (SPPC) and Excellent Energy Resources Inc. (EERI) facilities, jointly owned by Meralco PowerGen, San Miguel Global Power, and Aboitiz Power, will be cut from the grid from Saturday morning until Monday morning.
The shutdown is necessary to facilitate mechanical activities at Linseed Field Corp’s liquefied natural gas terminal, a key step toward completing its first onshore LNG storage tank by April.
According to DoE, the EERI plant is expected to reconnect to the grid by 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, while SPPC Block 1 will synchronize by 9 p.m. By Monday morning, both facilities will return to full capacity at 1,350 MW, up from the current 1,300 MW.
NGCP moves to avert shortfall
The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines has coordinated the maintenance schedule to align with lower weekend electricity demand, minimizing potential disruptions.
The Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines initially assessed that no yellow or red alerts are expected, though the temporary supply reduction could push spot market prices higher. A final market assessment will be released once NGCP updates the Market Management System with the latest outage schedule.
Meralco, on the other hand, has assured consumers that supply reserves are expected to be sufficient but remain on high alert. The utility firm is prepared to activate its Interruptible Load Program if necessary.
With the onset of hotter conditions following the end of the northeast monsoon, PAGASA forecasts Luzon’s heat index to range from 27°C to 41°C between 27 and 31 March.
The DoE is encouraging households and businesses to adopt energy-saving measures such as maximizing natural lighting and ventilation, turning off lights and appliances when not in use, and setting air conditioners to 24°C to 26°C.