The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on Thursday approved SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet Inc.’s (SNAP-BI) bid to build and own dedicated transmission lines linking its ±40-MW Binga Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to the Luzon grid via the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines’ (NGCP) 69-kV Binga substation.

In a 22-page decision dated Nov. 6, 2025, the ERC allowed SNAP-BI to develop the PHP 193.45-million “First Facility”—a 50-MVA take-off substation and 1-km 69-kV line—but barred it from constructing or owning the “Second Facility” inside NGCP’s switchyard. NGCP must build and operate all assets, including the approved portions, to safeguard grid reliability.

“NGCP shall operate the subject facilities, subject to applicable charges to SNAP-BI,” the ERC ruled.

The Binga BESS, targeting commercial run by October 2026, will help plug Luzon’s reserve gaps: only 347.78 MW of regulating reserve is contracted against a 591-MW need, while contingency reserve stands at 466.7 MW versus 668 MW required.

Despite SNAP-BI breaking ground on March 1, 2025, seven months ahead of approval, the ERC granted “regulatory forbearance” but warned that prior authorization remains “indispensable and non-negotiable.”

Should the assets serve other users later, ownership transfers to NGCP at fair market value, excluding the P1.45-million permit fee SNAP-BI must settle within 15 days.

The ERC directed NGCP to accelerate the Ambuklao–Binga and Binga–San Manuel 230-kV line upgrades to meet a December 2025 deadline, or face Binga BESS charging limited to 20 MW.

What does this precedent mean for the 1-GW BESS pipeline and NGCP delays? Share your take.

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