The Philippines Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has approved two transmission projects by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), the private operator of the country’s transmission network.
The projects include the PHP20.65 billion, 500 kV Balaoan–Laoag transmission line and the PHP2,585 million, 230 kV Capas substation in Luzon. The Balaoan–Laoag line, connecting La Union and Ilocos Norte, aims to strengthen the grid and integrate renewable energy sources in the Ilocos Region.
This line will serve as a critical backbone for the north-western Luzon grid, supporting offshore wind (OSW), renewable energy, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and anticipated load growth. The ERC has set a completion deadline for the project by November 2026.
NGCP had earlier stated the first stage of the project would be completed in 57 months from approval, and the second stage in 70 months. The Balaoan–Laoag line is part of NGCP’s 15 proposed grid projects to ensure reliable power supply.
In November 2024, the ERC also approved several major NGCP projects, including the PHP17.09 billion, 500 kV Bolo–Balaoan line, the PHP16.8 billion, 230 kV Northern Luzon loop, the PHP4.2 billion Nabas–Caticlan–Boracay project in Visayas, and the PHP2.34 billion, 230 kV Laguindingan substation project in Northern Mindanao.