The Department of Energy (DOE) has identified around 7,000 megawatts (MW) of power projects slated for completion in 2025, a move that, once it comes to fruition, will enhance the country’s energy sustainability, meet rising electricity demand, and improve the reliability of the energy supply while minimizing environmental impacts.
According to the Department of Energy (DOE) data cited by Manila Bulletin, a total of 6,841 MW of private sector-initiated projects are planned for this year, with the bulk of these projects concentrated in Luzon.
Luzon, whose demand is projected to increase by 5.4% to 14,769 MW, is poised to further expand its energy portfolio with 3,923 MW of renewable energy projects, mainly solar, complemented by 1,320 MW of natural gas and 500 MW of coal capacity to diversify its power mix.
Meanwhile, the Visayas region has 855 MW of planned developments, of which 846 MW are solar energy projects. Visayas’ demand is forecast to rise by 16% to 3,111 MW.
In Mindanao, renewable energy projects account for 176 MW of the 232 MW planned, reflecting a growing clean energy presence in the region. Mindanao’s demand is expected to grow by 8.2 percent to 2,789 MW.
As peak electricity demand is expected to rise, the expansion of power generation infrastructure is crucial to ensure that supply keeps pace with demand. By developing new energy projects, the DOE aims to prevent shortages and maintain reliable electricity supply, which is essential for economic growth and public welfare.
Meanwhile, the inclusion of various energy sources—solar, natural gas, and coal—allows for diversification, which in turn supports the country’s sustainability goals while also meeting increasing demand.
Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla assured the public that the power situation this year would improve, citing the completion of new generation capacity and transmission lines.
Energy storage systems (ESS) and battery energy storage systems (BESS) are also expanding, with Luzon developing 230 MW of ESS and BESS capacity, while Mindanao is looking to add 100 MW.
Lotilla also highlighted the ongoing efforts to address power concerns in the Visayas, which relies on energy imports from Luzon and Mindanao.
The DOE emphasized that the country is unlikely to face power shortages this year, even during the election period, thanks to infrastructure improvements by distribution utilities and electric cooperatives.
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