New plant to ease impact of power crisis

CEBU, Philippines - Global Business Power Corporation yesterday switched on its new 82-megawatts coal-fired power plant of its subsidiary Toledo Power Corporation in Barangay Daanlungsod, Toledo City.

The development was welcomed by the officials of the Cebu as the province needs more power sources to support its industries and promote for investment and tourism.

Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale said sufficient energy supply has always been a need for the modern world particularly for Cebu's growing economy.

Thus, she noted, projects that would supply the energy needs of the community would further allow the province to attract more investors.

GBPC Chairman Francisco Sebastian said the firm's power expansion project would help avert the looming energy crisis next year.

Sebastian explained although Luzon is seen to be the most affected by the projected power deficiency, Visayas would also partially be affected.

The 10.2-billion power plant project will supply the power needs of Carmen Copper Corporation's mining expansion projects which would get 55 MW.

The Cebu III Electric Cooperative, Inc. would also get 17 MW for the electricity demand of Toledo's local community.

Jaime Azurin, the company's executive vice president, said the new plant would help normalize the power situation in the Visayas grid and supply power to Western Cebu industries such as Balamban Enerzone and Cebeco III.

Azurin explained GBPC has wanted to increase the capacity of TPC's existing coal-fired plant to 62 MW to generate additional power source for next year's summer season.

GBPC is one of the power producers operating in Visayas.

Energy Undersecretary Raul Aguilos, who joined GBPC officials in the inauguration, recognized the equal share of responsibilities of power generating companies in ensuring an energy-secured society.

He cited a competent power industry is one of the strengths of a nation's economy. (FREEMAN)