The Department of Energy (DOE) has begun firm preparations to safeguard the country’s power system against the projected Super El Niño, which may push electricity rates higher alongside tighter supply.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin made the statement Tuesday at the sidelines of the 26th ASEAN Energy Business Forum in Pasay City. She stressed transparency without being alarmist, as state weather bureau PAGASA forecasts the prolonged dry spell to run from late 2026 through the first half of 2027, with peak impact from November to April.
“We have actually started already preparations, especially on our disaster preparedness and energy resilience,” Garin said. She noted rising temperatures will drive up electricity use, putting extra strain on supply.
Lower water levels will cut output from hydroelectric plants, while heat will reduce coal plant efficiency and increase the risk of outages, as seen in past El Niño events. Biomass and solar facilities may also face disruptions, she added.
Reduced supply amid higher demand will likely push rates up, particularly in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market. Garin said she has already discussed safeguards with Energy Regulatory Commission Chair Francis Saturnino Juan to ensure no market abuse takes place.
The DOE will roll out wider information campaigns to encourage energy conservation across households and businesses. “It’s better to be over prepared for this problem,” Garin said, urging the public to adopt energy-saving habits now to ease the strain.
