DMCI Power Corp. (DPC), the power generation arm of DMCI Holdings, Inc. is looking to use hybrid systems to help reduce the company’s fuel importation. 

In a report by BusinessWorld, DPC president Antonino Gatuldla said that DPC together with the Renewable Energy Management Bureau has agreed to explore the possibility of using hybrid fuels like biomass and coal in Masbate. 

Gatudula said that if the plans are deemed effective, the company will adapt the hybrid systems to its other service areas. 

DPC currently operates in Masbate, Palawan and Mindoro. It ventured into power generation in Sultan Kudarat in 2016. 

Earlier, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said that the Department of Energy is looking at hybrid systems as part of the country’s long-term solution to addressing the country’s dependence on imported fuel. 

DPC is also planning to develop a multi-technology power plant complex in the province where solar and diesel power will be used to support the initiatives for hybrid systems. 

Gatdula said that DPC uses indigenous fuel to run its off-grid thermal power plant in Masbate, which he said has “lower” universal charge for missionary electrification, a subsidy being paid by consumers. 

Last year, DPC announced that it will be expanding its generation capacity in the off-grid market, especially in Palawan and Masbate.