Visayas Needs Baseload Power Investment and LGU Support Amid Rising Demand, Says NGCP

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has underscored the critical need for increased investment in reliable baseload power generation and stronger support from local government units (LGUs) as the Visayas region faces rising electricity demand and limited local generating capacity. The grid operator discussed these pressing issues at a recent forum, highlighting that the insufficient local generating capacity is a significant factor contributing to the vulnerability of the power supply in the region. This situation poses a potential challenge to the industrial development and daily lives of citizens in the Visayas, a vital region for the Philippines' economic growth. A stable electricity supply is fundamental for both business operations and household activities, and a deficit in generation capacity could hinder economic progress. NGCP is urging not only power producers but also local government units to implement supportive measures that facilitate the construction of new power plants and the maintenance or upgrade of existing facilities. Such support could include streamlining permitting processes and assisting in community consensus building, as the cooperation of LGUs is crucial for the smooth progress of infrastructure development. While the Philippines is advancing its transition towards renewable energy, the importance of baseload power sources, which ensure a consistent and stable electricity supply independent of weather conditions, is being re-emphasized. The power situation in the Visayas region thus highlights the broader challenge faced by the Philippines in balancing a stable energy supply with sustainability in its overall energy policy.