ABOITIZPOWER Thermal Business Group will switch on the first floating, hybrid Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) of Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI) in Maco, Davao de Oro in March 2024.
During the Kapihan forum on Feb. 5, Atty. Alona Suzell Ruyeras-Borromeo, AboitizPower corporate service head, said BESS, a technology storing electrical energy, “is an important part of energy storage infrastructure and enhancing grid stability.”
“You can think of it like your lithium batteries or like a very big power bank. It stores excess electricity during low-demand periods, releasing it during high demand, reducing grid strain, and allowing for uninterrupted power service,” Borromeo said.
Borromeo shared that the TMI Hybrid BESS project, which began in 2021, was recently turned over to TMI operations last November 2023.
She said it is the first of its kind in the Philippines in terms of hybrid concept, putting together two complementary technologies – a battery energy storage and an oil power plant-to ensure a fast and sustained energy delivery. It is also the first in Southeast Asia to be built on a floating platform.
“It was first planned to be installed in Maco because we really wanted to initially pair it with an oil power plant, and the oil power plant that was available, and based on the studies, will be most feasible is the Maco. The next thing we pair it with is the hydropower plant,” she said.
The technology also provides a future with more renewable energy in Mindanao’s energy portfolio, as it addresses the volatility of renewables.
She also clarified that the BESS will not impact the price and current electricity rate in Mindanao, ensuring a consistent and abundant supply of electricity.
“In the event of an abrupt plant shutdown, the battery energy storage system reacts automatically, capable of swiftly delivering 49MW,” she added.
AboitizPower’s growth strategy involved further expanding its Cleanergy portfolio, emphasizing advancements in hydro, solar, geothermal, BESS, and other platforms.
The company continuously managed and operated thermal power generation assets, such as the 300MW coal power plant in Toril, Davao City, and the twin 100MW oil power barges in Maco, Davao de Oro and Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.
Photo from AboitizPower website
