The Department of Energy (DOE) has pledged an ample power supply before, during, and after the upcoming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) scheduled for October 30.
According to a recent report by the Philippine Star, the energy department said it has undertaken comprehensive measures to protect the integrity of the electoral process from any unexpected power disruptions. Emphasizing this commitment, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla highlighted the involvement of all stakeholders within the energy sector. Lotilla expressed the paramount importance of safeguarding energy needs during this critical period.
To guarantee the availability of generating units capable of meeting the demand and necessary reserves during the BSKE, DOE has organized its Energy Task Force Election. This task force coordinates closely with power generation companies and the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP).
To ensure stability in power supply, the strict suspension of preventive maintenance and testing of generating units for one week before and after the elections has been enforced.
While the energy demand forecast for Luzon during the election week stands at 12,257 megawatts, the current demand remains within the range of 10,500 MW to 11,500 MW, as the fourth quarter typically sees lower electricity consumption. As a result, a buffer of at least 700 MW is available to meet any increased demand.
In other regions, particularly the Visayas and Mindanao, no alerts are anticipated, guaranteeing a stable power supply during the election period.
Meanwhile, NGCP has been directed to utilize the high voltage direct current and the Mindanao Visayas Interconnection Project during peak hours to balance the power supply and demand system.
Additionally, distribution utilities are tasked to deploy special and emergency line crews for power line inspections, removal of obstructions, and to guarantee correct connections within their franchise areas. Meralco, in particular, has inspected the electric facilities of nearly 3,000 polling and canvassing centers within its franchise area.
Special and emergency line crews are on standby during the elections to address any emergency cases affecting the power supply.
