DOE welcomes battery storage technology for businesss amid Visayas power supply concerns

Local

THE Department of Energy (DOE) is welcoming battery energy storage systems (BESS) as an option to help improve power reliability and sustain business operations in the Visayas amid electricity supply challenges.

DOE Visayas Field Office Officer-in-Charge Renante Sevilla said battery storage technology could help stabilize the power system by maintaining voltage and frequency within acceptable limits, reducing the risk of interruptions.

Based on his experience in the power sector, Sevilla said he had witnessed how battery storage could help stabilize grid operations.

“Of course, these are, as they have presented, I think, focus sa mga industries. But I think it can help, dili na mo salig sa grid,” Sevilla said in an interview on the sidelights of the EBX Energy Summit on Friday, Oct. 17.

He noted that voltage and frequency fluctuations can affect system reliability and potentially trigger disruptions when operating levels exceed prescribed limits.

Sevilla said the government continues to encourage investments that can augment the region’s available power supply, as electricity demand continues to increase.

Battery storage could complement these efforts by helping businesses manage their own power requirements while additional generation projects are being developed.

“So we are really encouraging investors to come in. Although there are committed projects to come… So the best congruent will be on the 2028 na masulod ng additional capacities dito sa Visayas,” Sevilla added.

During a press conference on Friday, Oct. 16, EBAX Corp. presented its battery storage solutions for commercial and industrial establishments, describing the technology as an option for businesses that cannot afford prolonged power interruptions.

EBAX President and Chief Executive Officer Ernesto Abunda Jr. said the company is in discussions with prospective customers in Cebu, including a major company in Mandaue City that it hopes to serve next year. Negotiations with a hotel operator and assessments for other businesses are also ongoing.

Potential users include manufacturing plants, hospitals, hotels, cold storage facilities, food businesses and locators in manufacturing economic zones.

EBAX Corporate Technical Officer Ramon Gervasio said battery systems can deliver stored electricity rapidly when needed, without requiring fuel during discharge.

He said a system charged for one to two hours could supply electricity for a comparable period, depending on its configuration and operating conditions.

The batteries can draw electricity from the distribution grid and may also be integrated with solar installations, allowing excess renewable energy to be stored for later use.

Arthur Zhang of technology partner Trina Storage said the systems can help reduce power fluctuations and interruptions. They may also complement conventional backup generators and uninterruptible power supplies in facilities requiring stable electricity.

Abunda estimated a five- to six-year return period for the investment, although actual costs and savings would depend on each customer’s requirements.

The company said its approach covers assessment, system design, installation, commissioning and continuing technical support.

While battery storage can help businesses manage electricity risks, Sevilla emphasized the importance of bringing in additional capacity to meet the Visayas’ growing demand.

The technology is being positioned as a complementary measure to strengthen reliability as the region pursues longer-term solutions to its power supply requirements.(MyTVCebu)