8 more IPPs obtain ERC certificates

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has issued new certificates of compliance (COCs) to six independent power producers (IPPs) and two self-generation entities.

There are now 36 generation companies (Gencos) that meet the Philippine government’s electricity generation and operation requirements.

"Our country needs more generation companies to meet the growing need for sources of electricity. The commission is glad to award the COCs to Gencos that comply with the standards and requirements we set to ensure safe and efficient generation of electricity," ERC chairman Manuel R. Sanchez said.

The IPPs which recently secured COCs includes: PNOC Exploration Corp., an IPP of Isabela Electric Cooperative I in Echague, Isabela; First Gas Power Corp., an IPP of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) in Sta. Rita, Batangas City; Northern Mini Hydro Corp., an IPP of the National Power Corp. (Napocor) Bakun, Benguet; Hydro Electric Development Corp.; SFELAPCO, BENECO; Philex Mining Corp. and Davao Light and Power Co., Inc.

Companies with self-generation facility recently issued COCs are Zilog Electronics Philippines, Inc. with 3.3104 megawatt (MW) diesel power plant located in Parañaque City; and Orient Semiconductor Electronics Philippines, Inc. with 4.3-MW diesel power plant located inside the Light Industry and Science Park of the Philippines II at Calamba, Laguna.

The Gencos are required to secure the said certificate from the ERC pursuant to Electric Power Industry Reform Act. A COC is issued upon compliance with Philippine Grid and Distribution Code (PGDC), the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) rules, the Cross Ownership and Market Share Limitations and the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), among other requirements.