N. Cotabato consumers experience 4 hours brownout

KIDAPAWAN CITY -— Limited power supply from Mindanao's sources of energy was the main reason why North Cotabato power consumers have to endure longer power interruption the past week and the days ahead, a power utility official today said.Engr. Godofredo Homez, Cotabato Electric Cooperative (Cotelco)general manager, said at least four hours of rotational brownouts will be implemented per day in its 18 feeders as power allocations within its service area has been down to only 22 megawatts (MW). Homez said Cotelco needs 34 MW to ensure continuous power supply even during peak hours. He saidthe power production in Mindanaoremained in critical level following the shut down of STEAG power plant 2 in Misamis Oriental due topreventive maintenance. STEAG power plant 2 is producing 201 MW. There are other power plants of the National Power Corporation (NPC) undergoing preventive maintenance which further reduce power output in Mindanao, Homez said.For equal distribution of power through out the island, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (CGCP) directedCotelco to utilize the allotted load matrix that it developed for all distribution utililties in Mindanao. Homez explained that although Therma South Incorporated has been synchronized in the Mindanao Grid, only 5 MW were allotted for Cotelco, still not enough to sustain power situation. Homez cited that the shutdown of AGUS Hydro Electric Power Complexes and the slow production ofPulangi IV Hydro Electric Power Plant due to siltationalso affect the power supplies in Cotelco and other cooperative in the island. Cotelco also gets at least 10 MW from these power plants, Homez added. Homez said the power consumers will suffer the effects for at least one month or more depending on the early restorations of the power plants. We are extending our hearfelt apology to all our member consumers for this unforeseen event, we are asking for your patience and understanding, Homez said.