Philippine authorities pump 5MW into Catanduanes grid amidst shortages

Emergency unit lifts supply pressure in provincial system.

The Philippine government has activated a 5-megawatt (MW) generator set facility in Catanduanes to address ongoing power shortages and reduce rotational brownouts in the province.

“The newly activated 5-MW facility will provide immediate additional capacity whilst other power interventions are being completed,” the Department of Energy (DOE) said in a statement.

The province has experienced regular supply shortages that have disrupted households, businesses, and essential services.

An additional 8MW of capacity is expected from generator sets under an Emergency Power Supply Agreement 2 (EPSA 2) awarded by FICELCO on 29 May 2026.

Testing and commissioning are ongoing, with full commercial operations targeted for 15 June 2026, the DOE said.

“Together with the additional capacity being brought online through EPSA 2, these measures demonstrate the national government's commitment to addressing the energy needs of Catanduanes,” DOE Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.

Garin said that this will ensure more stable electricity service for residents, businesses, schools, hospitals, and other vital institutions.

The activation follows a ceremonial switch-on at the NPC Marinawa Compound on 11 June 2026.

The DOE, National Power Corporation (NPC), National Electrification Administration, First Catanduanes Electric Cooperative (FICELCO), and local government units will coordinate system monitoring and implementation of further measures to stabilise supply.