Antique: The government is expected to save around PHP2 billion annually from reduced energy subsidies in off-grid areas in Antique and Mindoro once a proposed submarine power cable project by DMCI Power Corporation (DPC) is completed this year.

According to Philippines News Agency, DPC President Antonino Gatdula announced during a press briefing that the company is awaiting regulatory approval for the 20-kilometer, PHP3-billion project. The project aims to connect Semirara Island in Antique to Mindoro, which is anticipated to enhance power capacity and electricity reliability in these regions facing power supply challenges.

Gatdula mentioned that foreign experts would be consulted for the project's implementation. DPC currently operates a 19.7-megawatt bunker fuel-powered facility in Oriental Mindoro and a 12.5-MW wind power project in Semirara Island, Caluya, Antique. The company has also proposed to establish solar, wind, and coal power plants in Semirara to phase out the use of bunker fuel and diesel.

He highlighted that the projected savings, based on current diesel and bunker prices, would not be less than PHP2 billion annually due to the displacement of these fuels. Coal, which is cheaper and available continuously, is expected to play a significant role in achieving these savings.

The Universal Charge for Missionary Electrification (UCME), a fee paid by power consumers to subsidize electricity in areas not connected to the national grid, is a key component of the project. This charge is collected by distribution utilities and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines from transmission customers and is remitted to the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation.

Gatdula assured that the proposed solar power plant would not affect agricultural lots, as Semirara is designated as an industrial area. He further emphasized the Department of Energy's recognition of the project's benefits and their ongoing efforts to advance the submarine cable initiative.