The Department of Energy is fast-tracking 22 power projects with a combined capacity of 1,471 MW targeted for grid entry by April 2026, as the government moves to strengthen electricity supply amid volatile global fuel markets.

The projects are already in advanced construction or final testing and commissioning stages. Once operational, they are expected to reinforce supply margins and support rising electricity demand across the country.

The initiative also supports the government’s response under Executive Order No. 110, which aims to secure stable and reliable electricity supply for Filipino households and businesses.

Solar dominates incoming capacity

Most of the new capacity will come from renewable energy projects, reflecting the country’s continued shift toward a diversified energy mix.

Of the 22 projects:

• 12 solar power plants will contribute about 1,284 MW
• Six hydroelectric facilities will add 48.23 MW
• Two biomass plants will supply 38 MW
• One wind project will provide 13.56 MW
• One Integrated Renewable Energy Storage System (IRESS) will deliver 20 MW

Together, these projects aim to strengthen grid reliability while reducing exposure to fossil fuel price volatility.

Part of a broader power expansion plan

The 22 projects form part of the 200 power plants that Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directed the DOE to accelerate over the next three years during his fourth State of the Nation Address.

The initiative aims to expand power supply nationwide and address rising electricity demand.

To date, 24 power plants under DOE monitoring have already entered commercial operation. These facilities have a combined capacity of 1,178.642 MW.

Three solar plants began commercial operations this month, adding fresh renewable capacity to the grid.

Battery storage also expanding

Battery storage systems are also growing as part of the country’s energy transition.

Seven Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facilities are already operational, with a combined capacity of 190 MW.

Energy storage plays a critical role in stabilizing electricity supply, especially as more variable renewable energy sources enter the grid.

Coordination to avoid project delays

To ensure the timely completion of the remaining projects, the DOE is coordinating closely with key power sector institutions.

These include the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, the Energy Regulatory Commission, and the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines.

The agencies are working together to address transmission, interconnection, inspection, registration, and metering requirements that could delay commercial operations.

Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin emphasized the urgency of bringing new capacity into the grid.

“At a time when the country must act with urgency and discipline to protect the integrity of the power system, the timely delivery of committed capacity is imperative,” Garin said.

“Every megawatt that can be safely and lawfully brought into the grid strengthens our ability to meet demand, manage supply risks, and protect consumers.”

She added that the DOE remains engaged across the entire power value chain to help ensure projects move forward as soon as possible.

The department said it will continue monitoring project progress and coordinating with power sector stakeholders to ensure that new capacity enters the grid while meeting technical, safety, and regulatory standards.

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