UP experts to assess Siquijor power plant viability

Experts from the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Engineering will assess the viability of Siquijor Island Power Corporation's (SIPCOR) power plant.

This assessment is part of measures to address the power situation in Siquijor, which requires 8 to 9 megawatts but has been receiving only 5 to 6 megawatts, causing frequent blackouts.

National Electrification Administration (NEA) Administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda stated that a third-party surveyor from UP has been commissioned to evaluate the plant's ability to meet contractual obligations.

An inter-agency investigation revealed that SIPCOR's power plant has an expired permit, lacks the required minimum fuel inventory, has non-working generation units, and does not have reserve generator sets.

Almeda warned that contractual obligations may be set aside if the plant cannot perform, prioritizing public welfare.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin has also given the go-signal for this independent assessment.