CCCI mulls creating ‘power alliance’

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) has announced the expansion of its Power Committee, aiming to drive forward discussions on energy stability, affordability, and reliability in Cebu.

CCCI President Jay Yuvallos revealed this development during the recent "Powering Cebu" energy forum, hosted by The Freeman and Philippine Star Media Group.

With concerns growing around Cebu’s thinning energy reserves, Yuvallos emphasized that power stability is critical for both businesses and residents.

"Power is not just a business issue—it’s everyone’s issue. It’s fundamental to production, manufacturing, and even tourism," he explained.

CCCI, which counts nearly a thousand members, predominantly Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), regards affordable and reliable power as crucial for competitiveness.

To address these challenges, CCCI is expanding its Power Committee and pushing for the creation of a "Power Alliance" in partnership with key energy stakeholders, including Visayan Electric.

"Our goal is to create a lasting discussion on power reliability and build an ecosystem conducive to sustainable economic growth,” Yuvallos said.

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, speaking at the forum, highlighted the essential role of power in Cebu’s economic growth.

"If water is life, then power gives life to the economy," Garcia asserted, stressing that without a stable energy supply, economic progress is severely impeded.

Department of Energy (DOE) Assistant Secretary Mario Marasigan shared that Cebu's peak energy demand is expected to hit 2,700 megawatts next year.

He noted ongoing transmission projects by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to enhance Cebu’s power reliability and support its role as a vital Visayan hub. "Ensuring capacity is available when needed is crucial," Marasigan emphasized.

As Cebu’s energy demand continues to rise, a mix of new projects—including a forthcoming solar power plant—promises to diversify the region’s power landscape, adding a sustainable component to its energy capacity.

Neil Modina, Assistant Vice President for NGCP’s Visayas System Operations, reported that Cebu’s current power capacity stands at 1,123 MW, with peak demand reaching 1,223 MW. Fortunately, Cebu can tap into the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao grids, offsetting its shortfall with interconnection options.

Looking forward, Cebu’s energy capacity is projected to grow by 57.5 MW by 2026, addressing the surging demand driven by economic expansion.

For Cebu’s business sector, especially MSMEs, reliable and affordable power is essential to leveraging the region's economic potential, Yuvallos added.

The "Powering Cebu" forum, attended by over a hundred public and private sector stakeholders, underscored the collaborative efforts required to address Cebu’s energy challenges and sustain its economic momentum.