Manila: The Department of Energy (DOE) will install solar battery systems in Visayas provinces to boost power reserves and respond to the frequent yellow and red alerts in the Visayas grid. At the launch of an energy efficiency campaign in Western Visayas, held at the Festive Walk Mall, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin announced that the four batteries, each with a capacity of 50 megawatts (MW), will be deployed to Panay, Iloilo in particular, Negros, Cebu, and Bohol as a temporary relief.

According to Philippines News Agency, Garin stated, "We will be adding more reserves in the Visayas through battery systems. That will be implemented within one month. That was the first order of the President." For the long-term plan, Garin emphasized the need for an assessment of Panay, which currently relies on submarine cables for power. The objective is for Panay to become independent and not rely on imports, with new baseload power plants expected by 2028, 2029, and 2030, collectively bringing in over 450 MW.

Garin highlighted the growing demand in Iloilo City, which is experiencing an average growth of 14 percent compared to the national growth rate of 6 percent to 7 percent, and noted that other provinces in Panay and Guimaras are also expanding. She plans to meet with the Department of Economic Planning and Development, the Regional Development Council, and governors to address issues with electric cooperatives and to improve transmission and distribution lines.

In the interim, Garin urged the public to join the ONE 'Oras Natin sa Efficiency' movement, encouraging citizens to unplug unused devices and turn off unnecessary lights to contribute to the solution in Visayas. The most recent yellow alert for the Visayas grid occurred on the evening of July 17, with peak demand at 2,495 MW and available capacity at 2,725 MW.