The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has approved the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ (NGCP) P11.77-billion Claver-Siargao Interconnection Project (CSIP), aimed at improving power supply in Siargao Island.
The ERC ordered NGCP to complete and commission the project by end-June 2030. NGCP was also directed to pay P88.28 million in permit fees for the transmission project.
The project will involve the installation of a 42-kilometer submarine cable with a capacity of 58 megavolt-amperes, connecting new switching stations in Claver, Surigao del Norte and Dapa, Siargao Island.
According to the ERC, the project was requested by the Siargao Electric Cooperative (Siarelco) due to rising electricity demand on the island. Siargao currently draws power from the Mindanao Grid through a long 34.5-kilovolt submarine and overhead line, with no local power generation. This setup has led to persistent low voltage issues that can affect the performance and lifespan of appliances.
The ERC said the new interconnection will increase transmission capacity, provide a higher-voltage link to the island, and help maintain stable voltage levels to ensure more reliable power service for consumers in Siargao.
The Claver-Siargao Interconnection Project has also been certified by the Department of Energy as an Energy Project of National Significance, highlighting its priority in the country’s energy development plans.
