The Department of Energy (DOE) has projected higher energy demand in Luzon during the summer.
Following the recent heat index levels, the DOE reported a peak demand projection of 14,769 megawatts (MW) in Luzon, while Visayas could reach 3,111 MW, and Mindanao, 2,789 MW.
“The maximum adjusted available generating capacity is 15,504 MW in Luzon, 3,040 MW in Visayas, and 3,314 MW in Mindanao as outlined in the Grid Operating Maintenance Program (GOMP) 2025-2027 and committed power projects for 2025,” the DOE stated.
Despite the rising demand anticipated over the summer season, new projects are also expected to bring in 1,890 MW in Luzon, and 193 MW in Visayas.
“Additionally, the Luzon-Visayas and Visayas-Mindanao high-voltage direct current (HVDC) interconnections enhance supply availability and improve reserve margins by enabling capacity sharing of 250 MW and 450 MW, respectively,” the DOE said.
During last year’s summer period, Luzon’s peak demand was at 14,016 MW, Visayas was at 2,681 MW, and Mindanao had 2,577 MW.
Because of this, the DOE urged the public to manage electricity consumption following the increased temperature and the beginning of the dry season.
Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla emphasized the need for energy efficiency to avoid power strains over the summer.
“The summer months are characterized by higher energy demand, primarily driven by the increased use of cooling appliances such as air conditioners, electric fans, and refrigerators,” he said.
“Without mindful consumption, this surge could strain the power grid, potentially leading to supply challenges and price fluctuations in the spot market.”
Lotilla added that reassessing power usage would help minimize potential power fluctuations.
The DOE cited various practices, such as rescheduling energy-intensive activities. This includes being mindful of peak hours, when power demand is higher, such as 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and 6-9 p.m. on weekends.
“By shifting energy-intensive operations to off-peak hours, consumers can help ease the strain on the grid, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable power system,” the DOE added.
Residents were also advised to adopt energy-saving measures such as setting a limit to their use of air conditioners, switching to electric fans, and switching to natural ventilation if possible.
Inverter-type models are also recommended by the government to lessen excessive energy consumption.
Meanwhile, commercial and industrial establishments are advised to maintain their equipment and adopt other energy-efficient technologies like LED lighting or automated energy management systems and practice energy conservation protocols.
Despite the anticipated hot season, rainfall is also expected to offset hot temperatures, as the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) assured water release activities until June or July to help with the power demand.
“[Water releases] will be particularly beneficial for the Pantabangan and Magat dams, which serve both irrigation needs and the energy sector by helping meet Luzon’s power requirements,” the DOE concluded.