To secure the continuity of power transmission services in the case of a major system disturbance, NGCP recently conducted its annual blackout drill for the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao grids.
The exercise, conducted yearly since the start of NGCP’s operations, is comprised of both tabletop discussions and an actual simulation drill. This year’s theme, “Cutting Down Restoration Time – Sharing Lessons Learned,” highlights the importance of past experiences and moving forward to lessen recovery time in the event of a system blackout.
The activity was attended by stakeholders from the generation sector and distribution sector, as well as representatives from the Department of Energy, Energy Regulatory Commission, National Transmission Corporation, Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines, and the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation.
The presentations were still conducted virtually via video conferencing, to minimize face-to-face interaction and limit the spread of COVID-19. Discussions included black start services, actual restoration experiences, blackout restoration guidelines and procedures, and workshops focusing on area-specific blackout restoration highways. A week after the tabletop presentations, a simulation drill was held to replicate an actual blackout scenario.
“We conduct the blackout drill every year because it is critical that every power stakeholder knows their role in the event of a system collapse. When everyone understands their part in the system, we are able to effectively communicate, efficiently respond, and recover from a blackout,” NGCP said.
NGCP is a Filipino-led, privately owned company in charge of operating, maintaining, and developing the country’s power grid, led by majority shareholders and Vice Chairman of the Board Henry Sy, Jr. and Co-Vice Chairman Robert Coyiuto, Jr. It is the sole operating asset of Synergy Grid and Development Philippines, Inc.(NGCP PR)
