HERMOSA, Bataan: The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines has conducted its annual blackout drill as part of its preparations to respond to large-scale power outages or system disturbances.
The activities had for the theme “Blackout Readiness: Strengthening Response Capabilities.” The drills held separately for the Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao grids had tabletop discussions and practical simulation exercises that align the contingency response of every player in the energy sector, particularly the generation plants.
“Through these drills, NGCP can evaluate communication protocols, assess response times, and strengthen coordination efforts. We are able to identify weaknesses, if any, and address them proactively, in coordination with our partner stakeholders,” NGCP said.
Black start services, actual restoration experiences, blackout restoration guidelines and procedures, breakout sessions, and workshops focusing on area-specific blackout restoration highways were discussed.
To replicate an actual blackout scenario, a simulation drill was held a week after the tabletop presentation.
Joining the activity were stakeholders from the generation sector and distribution sector, as well as representatives from the Department of Energy and Energy Regulatory Commission, Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation, National Power Corporation, National Transmission Corporation.
Also attending the drill were Wholesale Electricity Spot Market, Philippine Electricity Market Corporation, Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines, Philippine Independent Power Producers Association Inc. and National Electrification Administration.
NGCP said one of its main functions as the country’s transmission operator is to constantly enhance operational efficiency of power transmission network operations, particularly that of System Operations.
