NGCP to build P11.86-B Claver-Siargao interconnection

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has received the go-ahead to build an P11.86-billion power transmission project.

This is meant to boost power supply reliability in a portion of Surigao del Norte, including the popular Siargao Island.

The approval was cleared by Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) chief Francis Saturnino Juan.

Based on a document from the ERC, the Claver–Siargao Interconnection Project (CSIP) would involve the deployment of a new 69 kilovolt (kV) facility that would link the Cagdianao NGCP Line and Siargao Island.

It includes a 42-kilometer submarine cable with a 58 MegaVolt-Ampere capacity. It would connect two new switching stations—one in Claver, Surigao del Norte and another in Dapa, Siargao Island.

The grid operator said the project was proposed after the Siargao Electric Cooperative (Siarelco) formally sought an extension of the NGCP line to Dapa amid stronger power demand on the tourist island.

“The CSIP is proposed to provide grid expansion and ensure reliable power delivery service to power consumers in Siargao Island and Siarelco coverage areas,” the NGCP said.

“The project will increase transmission capacity to support growing load demand, provide a higher-voltage interconnection facility to the island, and maintain the voltage at Siarelco’s new grid connection point within its normal operating levels,” it added.

The power distributor covers nine municipalities, namely Dapa, Del Carmen, Sta. Monica, San Benito, Burgos, Pilar, San Isidro, General Luna and Socorro.

The NGCP also noted that the facility was tagged as an energy project of national significance. This is a status that may help developers enjoy faster permit processing.

The ERC ordered the NGCP to complete the project on or before June 30, 2030.

In December, the regulator also approved the establishment of the P13-billion Milaor 500-kilovolt Substation Project in Camarines Sur.