Power transmission service provider NGCP is urging national and local government agencies to support the implementation of the Batangas-Mindoro Interconnection Project (BMIP). Initially slated for completion in September 2027, the Department of Energy has accelerated the project's timeline to December 2025.
NGCP obtained provisional approval from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) in February 2023 to undertake the BMIP, with an estimated cost of PhP14.03 billion. The DOE's recent announcement of NGCP's commitment to conclude the BMIP in 2025 signifies a significant reduction in the project's timeline, considering the scale of this interconnection initiative.
“In our 2023 application submitted to the ERC, the projected timeline was 2027, already a tight schedule for a project of this magnitude,” NGCP noted.
Comparatively, in many other parts of the world, including developed nations such as the US, Australia, and parts of Europe, the construction of transmission lines typically spans between 7 to 10 years.
NGCP expressed its understanding and support for the DOE's urgency in handling critical projects like the BMIP.
The company emphasized that the usual bottlenecks, including right-of-way concerns and permit issuance by local governments and other government agencies, must be overcome. NGCP acknowledged the formidable challenge but committed to giving its best effort to meet the accelerated timeline.
NGCP has already communicated its concerns to the DOE, seeking support in the acquisition of right-of-way and the expedited processing of permits from local government units and other government entities.
The timeline imposed by the DOE remains demanding even with government support, assuming there are no permitting or right-of-way delays or court-issued restraining orders against the project. NGCP affirmed its dedication to finishing the project as swiftly as possible.
Prior to receiving ERC approval for the project, NGCP had completed various pre-construction activities, including topographic surveys of the submarine cable and cable terminal station sites, marine and hydrographic surveys, and route surveys for the 230kV and 69kV overhead transmission line portions.
NGCP initially submitted an application to the ERC in 2011 with the objective of connecting off-grid islands to the main transmission grid. Recognizing the project's necessity, the company refiled its application in 2021 to connect the Mindoro provinces to the main Luzon grid, enhancing the reliability and stability of power transmission on the island.
“The province of Mindoro has been grappling with power interruptions due to intermittent power supply and the high cost of electricity. With its rapidly growing economic development, the province demands a long-term solution. The connection to the main grid will unlock access to other energy sources, ensuring a steady power supply to the island,” stated NGCP.
Mindoro was also identified as one of the Competitive Renewable Energy Zones, offering opportunities for investments in renewable energy. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in the planned interconnection with other ASEAN countries.
