Energy sector braces for Christmas storm
The Department of Energy and other players in the power sector have mobilized their resources to minimize the disruption of the country’s electricity supply by Tropical Storm “Nina,” which is forecast to make landfall over the Bicol Region this Christmas weekend.
In a statement, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said he had directed energy industry players and government agencies to prepare and closely monitor the entry of Nina, to ensure minimal impact to energy facilities for the people to enjoy continuous energy supply during the holidays.
According to the weather bureau Pagasa, Nina is expected to make landfall over the Bicol Region, or nearby Samar, between Dec. 24 and 25.
“I asked the energy family, specifically the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA), to prepare necessary precautionary measures, especially for the speedy restoration and recovery if the storm will affect the power facilities,” Cusi said.
Both the NGCP and the Manila Electric Co. have already indicated that they have put their units on standby to respond to potential damage to the transmission system that the weather disturbance may cause.
“Even during holidays, Task Force Kapatid will be readied for easy mobilization of assets,” he added, referring to the ad hoc unit tasked with mitigating the impact of natural calamities on the country’s power system.
Article continues after this advertisementAs to petroleum products, Cusi asked the oil companies to ensure prescribed inventory of fuels, especially to those communities that depend on gasoline and diesel for their daily activities, to protect oil consumers from hampered services.
The Energy chief also reminded the public to exercise emergency and safety measures like charging flashlights and mobile phones; staying informed about the latest news developments; switching off circuit breakers and other electrical systems to avoid electrocution and other electrical mishaps; and checking electrical systems after the storm to avoid short circuits.
