DOE estimates 1 month for full power restoration post-Uwan

The Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that full power restoration for millions affected by Super Typhoon Uwan may take about a month, with over 60% of affected municipalities already having power restored.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin has directed stakeholders to normalize energy-related utilities, prioritizing critical sectors like hospitals, evacuation centers, water and telecom facilities, and command centers, which should be completed within hours or days.

The DOE is monitoring 60 affected electric cooperatives, with initial damage in the energy sector estimated at more than P4 million.

The DOE is also considering deploying linemen from Mindanao and utilizing other power plants in the region to expedite restoration.

According to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), more than 10 transmission lines in Luzon and Visayas remain non-operational following the typhoon's onslaught.

Nine power plants are still undergoing restoration, and Meralco's electricity rates will increase by 15 centavos per kilowatt-hour in November.