NGCP gets more time to complete P8.2 billion grid projects

MANILA, Philippines — The National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) has secured regulatory approval to push back the completion target for two transmission projects worth P8.2 billion to next year.

In separate orders dated Aug. 24, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) granted the NGCP’s request to move the timelines for the P6.3-billion Porac 230-kilovolt-substation project and the P1.9-billion Amlan-Dumaguete 138-kV transmission line project.

The Porac project, designed to address the forecasted load growth in Pampanga, will now be completed on or before June 30, 2027, more than seven months beyond its original deadline of Nov. 18, 2026.

The NGCP sought the adjustment after right-of-way issues slowed the project’s implementation.

The grid operator said the timelines submitted in its applications were based on “best-case scenario” assumptions and should not be treated as firm deadlines.

“Rather, they are provided to give the commission an estimation of the project’s implementation timeline with the assumption that no roadblocks, difficulties or legal impediments are encountered,” it said.

While recognizing the susceptibility of infrastructure projects to delays and unforeseen challenges, the ERC stressed the critical role of power transmission assets and the need to ensure their timely completion.

Still, the commission found the revised completion date reasonable while directing the NGCP to take all necessary measures to mitigate the operational impact of the delay.

For the Amlan-Dumaguete transmission line, the ERC moved the completion deadline to March 31 next year from the original target of Sept. 5, 2024.

The line project is intended to accommodate growing electricity demand in Negros Oriental and help minimize recurring and prolonged power interruptions.

In its motion for partial reconsideration, the NGCP cited several implementation challenges, including issues with the local government and difficulties in securing the necessary permits and licenses.

After reviewing the circumstances surrounding the project’s implementation, the regulator deemed it appropriate to adjust the completion date, subject to certain conditions.

As the country’s sole transmission operator, NGCP develops, operates and maintains the state-owned power grid. It is responsible for safely delivering electricity from power plants to distribution utilities.