The National Electrification Administration (NEA) said electric cooperatives (ECs) should invest in embedded power generation projects to mitigate future supply shortages in their respective coverage areas.
Embedded power generation projects are those connected to the distribution network and not to the national grid.
Edgardo Masongsong, NEA administrator, said embedded power generation projects could serve as supplemental energy supply during peak demand times apart from providing reserves or backup power to consumers during emergencies and calamities.
Masongsong directed NEA’s Total Electrification and Renewable Energy Development Department to assist ECs in developing their own embedded generation and explore the use of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydro and biomass.
At present, the agency is leading a feasibility study on the establishment of a hybrid mini-grid system using renewable energy in six unserved off-grid areas under the franchise of Quezon II Electric Cooperative, Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative and South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative.
NEA also conducted feasibility studies together with the National Economic and Development Authority for the hybridization of existing diesel power plants with renewable energy and battery in ten islands in Northern and Western Samar. – Jed Macapagal
