DOE fast-tracks 1,471 MW in 22 power projects for April 2026
Amid continued volatility in global oil markets driven by tensions in the Middle East, the Department of Energy (DOE) said it is accelerating the grid entry of 1,471 megawatts (MW) in new capacity from 22 power projects targeted for operation by April 2026.
According to a DOE news releaase, the move supports the government’s response under Executive Order No. 110 to secure stable and reliable electricity supply, while cushioning the impact of rising fuel costs on households and businesses.
“At a time when the country must act with urgency and discipline to protect the integrity of the power system, the timely delivery of committed capacity is imperative,” said Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin.
“Every megawatt that can be safely and lawfully brought into the grid strengthens our ability to meet demand, manage supply risks, and protect consumers. The Department is fully engaged across the entire power value chain, from generation to transmission to market operations to help ensure that these projects move forward at the soonest possible time,” the DOE secretary said.
According to the DOE, all 22 projects are in advanced construction or final testing stages. Once online, they are expected to boost supply margins, meet rising demand, and reinforce grid reliability in the near term.
The pipeline is heavily anchored on renewable energy. Twelve solar projects will contribute about 1,284 MW, alongside six hydro plants (48.23 MW), two biomass facilities (38 MW), one wind project (13.56 MW), and a 20 MW Integrated Renewable Energy Storage System (IRESS).
These projects form part of the 200 power plants President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered fast-tracked over the next three years in his fourth State of the Nation Address, underscoring a broader push toward a more diversified and resilient energy mix.
Progress is already underway. Of the 200 projects under DOE monitoring, 24 plants with a combined capacity of 1,178.642 MW are now in commercial operation. Three solar plants alone went online this month.
In parallel, seven Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facilities with a total capacity of 190 MW are also operational, providing added flexibility to manage supply and demand.
To keep projects on track, the DOE is working closely with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) to resolve transmission, interconnection, inspection, and registration requirements and avoid delays in commercial rollout.
The DOE said it will continue close monitoring and coordination with industry stakeholders to ensure timely delivery of new capacity in line with technical, safety, and regulatory standards.
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