THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has approved the development of more point-to-point transmission facilities connecting energy projects to the national grid.In separate decisions released Friday, the ERC authorized San Miguel Global Power Holdings Inc. subsidiary SMGP BESS Power Inc. to develop and own transmission facilities linking its 40-megawatt (MW) Magapit battery energy storage system (BESS) in Cagayan to the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines’ (NGCP) 69-kilovolt (kV) Lal-lo substation.The commission also approved San Ildefonso Alternative Energy Corp.’s application to develop and own facilities connecting its 22.004-MW solar power plant in Bulacan to the grid through Meralco’s Cruz Na Daan-Alagao 69-kV transmission line.The Magapit BESS transmission project consists of two 20/25-megavolt-ampere (MVA), 13.8/69-kV take-off substations equipped with protection, metering and telecommunications systems; a 70-meter, 69-kV transmission line; and other assets needed to connect the battery facility to NGCP’s Lal-lo substation.The project has an estimated cost of P127.79 million.Meanwhile, San Ildefonso’s transmission facilities include a 20/25-MVA, 69/13.8-kV take-off substation with protection and telecommunications equipment; a 69-kV substation; a 0.7-kilometer, 69-kV transmission line; and another 0.2-kilometer, 69-kV line. Both transmission lines may require upgrades.The facilities have an estimated cost of P548.40 million.The ERC noted that both transmission projects had already been completed event before the commission issued its approvals. It reiterated that generation companies and other grid users planning similar projects must secure approval before starting development and construction.It said prior authorization is necessary to ensure coordinated system planning and protect the integrity, security and reliability of the country’s power grid.The requirement also seeks to prevent the proliferation of unauthorized transmission facilities that could compromise grid reliability.
