The National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR) is accelerating efforts to modernize island power systems by expanding hybrid energy projects and inviting greater private sector participation, its top official said Saturday.

NPC President and CEO Koko Nograles said the agency is actively developing and implementing hybridization programs that integrate renewable energy sources into existing diesel-dependent power plants in off-grid areas.

“Ilang taon na po nating pinaplano at ini-implement yung tinatawag na hybridization ng ating mga power plant. Ibig sabihin, hindi lamang diesel yung maging fuel niya, kundi didikatan pa natin ng solar panels or solar panels, wind or hydroelectric na mga generators,” Nograles said.

In an interview on DZRH’s Special on Saturday, Nograles said the strategy combines solar, wind, hydro, and battery energy storage systems with traditional diesel generation to improve efficiency and reduce fuel dependence in island grids.

He said several hybrid plants have already been switched on in recent months, with additional facilities expected to become operational within the year. Around eight to 12 power plants are currently undergoing hybridization, according to NPC.

To speed up deployment, Nograles said the agency is also opening opportunities for private sector participation in the development and upgrading of island-based power systems.

“Nag-aalok din kami sa private sector kung sinong gusto. Dine-develop po namin ito para mapabilis po yung hybridization na magkaroon po ng private sector participation sa pag-hybridize po ng mga planta sa isla.”

The move signals a broader shift toward collaborative infrastructure expansion, particularly in remote communities where energy costs remain high due to logistical and fuel constraints.

NPC said the hybridization push is aimed at strengthening energy reliability while improving sustainability in missionary areas, which are not connected to the main transmission grid and rely heavily on localized power generation.