AMID looming power crisis and the possible power rationing in the Visayas Grid, local
officials here are now jump-starting the Cantakoy Falls hydro-power development at the
Wahig-Pamacsalan River into Bohol’s newest clean-energy source.
Speaking to the local media at the weekly Mansion news engagement, Bohol Governor
Erico Aumentado divulged the possibility of the effect of the planned power rationing in
the Visayas grid as an effect of the reduced power outputs due to critical water levels to
run the country’s hydro-electric plants.
This as possible shutdown for 40 days of the country’s major hydro power plans loom,
reports said.
He hinted that since the Visayas Grid shares a common power source, there is a
possibility of making sure that important power requirements of major industrial
and commercial centers would be prioritized. That scenario leaves some areas with
decreased power, which may result to rotating brown-outs or power rationing.
The governor, who revealed his intention to meet Bohol power providers and the
officials of the National Grid Corporation (formerly National Power Corporation), said he
wants to be assessed of the local situation by the players themselves.
He also insists he has made it a policy to come up with consultations to come up with
any decision.
The governor also revealed he has met Dennis Villareal and Sta. Clara Development
Corporation, who has initially shown interest in developing hydro power in Cantakoy
Falls.
At present, Bohol power requirement is largely coming from the upgraded 138 KV Leyte
Bohol Power Interconnection Project.
That is also complemented by three Bohol based hydro-electric power plants, each
capable of at least 2.5 KV of power, separate sources revealed.
The additional capability of another 2.5 KV in Cantakoy would also increase Bohol’s
power significantly.
The governor has also earlier revealed the plan to hook Bohol into the Palinpinon
Geothermal Facility in Negros, to assure the needed power province’s requirements
especially with the operation of the Panglao Island International Airport and the full
agro-industrialization dream of Bohol. (PIA-Bohol)