The Department of Energy (DOE) is preparing contingency measures to mitigate the expected effects of Super El Niño on the country’s energy supply and consumers.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the agency had met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other government agencies to strengthen preparations for the anticipated drought, particularly in the food, water, agriculture, and energy sectors, according to a report by RH Jecelle Ricafort on DZRH's Magandang Umaga Pilipinas.
Garin said Marcos emphasized the need to ensure an adequate and reliable supply of energy and fuel amid the possible effects of the weather phenomenon.
She added that critical facilities, including hospitals, dams, and farms, were also preparing for the expected dry conditions.
The DOE chief assured the public that the agency would continue coordinating with other government offices to safeguard the country’s energy security and minimize the potential impact of El Niño on consumers and the daily lives of Filipinos.
Among the contingency measures being considered are the activation of standby generator sets, the use of battery energy storage systems, and the deployment of emergency power barges to help ensure a stable electricity supply.
Meanwhile, the DOE reported that the power supply outlook in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao remained normal for the current week and the succeeding weeks.
Energy Undersecretary Mario Marasigan said the agency’s power supply assessment showed no expected yellow or red alerts.
However, he warned that delays in the scheduled return to service of generating units in Luzon could reduce available power reserves and increase the risk of electricity supply alerts in the coming weeks.
