DAVAO — The Mindanao grid is set to receive 1,323 megawatts of additional power from committed projects over the next five years. The Department of Energy Region XI announced that these projects will strengthen the region's energy security and support its growing economy.
Committed Projects in the Pipeline
Dr. Erick George D. Uy, OIC-Chief of the Energy Utilization Management Division at DOE-XI, said the committed power projects have already complied with all documentary requirements and secured financial sourcing. These projects will be online and connected to the grid by 2031.
The additional capacity will supplement the current installed capacity of 4,718 megawatts in the Mindanao Grid. Uy noted that investor interest continues to grow, driven by Mindanao's booming economy and stable power supply.
Renewable Energy Dominates the Mix
Most of the committed power projects involve renewable energy, reflecting the country's shift away from coal and oil. Around 26 projects are renewable, contributing 997.915 megawatts or 75.38 percent of the total committed capacity. Of these, 14 are solar projects, 10 are hydropower, and two are wind.
There are also seven Battery Energy Storage System projects with a combined capacity of 208 megawatts. Only two coal power plants with 270 megawatts and two oil-based plants are included in the pipeline. This aligns with the Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050, which targets a 35 percent renewable energy share by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.
Key Projects in the Davao Region
Several power projects are rising in the Davao Region. Global Sibagat Hydro Power Corporation is developing two hydropower projects in Manay and Baganga, Davao Oriental, with a combined capacity of 68 megawatts.
SMC Global Light and Power Corporation is building solar projects in Malita. Cell Power Energy Corporation is constructing a 20-megawatt Battery Energy Storage System in Toril, while SMGP BESS Power Inc. is developing another 20-megawatt BESS in Tagum City.
Stable Power Supply Supports Growth
Uy emphasized that Mindanao's power supply has remained stable since September 13, when the grid returned to normal operations. He contrasted this with the Visayas grid, which has experienced challenges in recent months.
The availability of reliable power is a primary indicator of Mindanao's economic boom. Businesses and industries require consistent electricity to operate efficiently, and the new projects ensure that supply keeps pace with demand. The energy mix also supports the government's climate goals by reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Indicative Projects Offer Future Potential
Beyond committed projects, there are also 3,256 megawatts from indicative projects that have yet to secure funding or financial closure. These projects have conducted pre-feasibility studies but still need to complete requirements such as certificates of compliance from the Energy Regulatory Commission.
Once these indicative projects secure financing and regulatory approvals, they could further expand Mindanao's power capacity. The pipeline of both committed and indicative projects signals strong investor confidence in the region's long-term growth prospects.
