The Mindanao-Visayas Interconnection Project (MVIP) will begin its full operations in July, enabling power sharing in all three main islands of the Philippines.

In a report by the Inquirer, the Department of Energy (DOE) revealed that the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has begun testing the grid connecting Visayas and Mindanao through a flow of 80 megawatts (MW) one way at a time. 

Energy Undersecretary Rowena Guevara said the power streaming would be slowly increased to allow enough time for line construction and stringing, adding that NGCP will continue to increase capacity until July. 

Following full operations in July, the MVIP will allow power-sharing of 450 MW of initial capacity between Visayas and Mindanao to prevent supply shortage. Excess power from the line will then be transmitted to Luzon – creating one connected grid throughout the country. 

To date, only the Luzon and Visayas grids are connected. 

Guevara further noted that the MVIP will be 50% operational at 225 MW by June. 

The Mindanao and Visayas grids are connected through 184 circuit kilometers (ckm) of submarine cables and 422 ckm of overhead wires, 

It can be recalled that resistance from landowners and the issuance of permits from local government units have delayed the launch of MVIP.