El Niño threat prompts power firms to brace for Mindanao shortages

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Power companies operating in Mindanao are mobilizing preparedness measures as meteorological forecasts point to an impending El Niño phenomenon that could significantly impact the region's renewable energy capacity.

First Gen Corp. is among utilities adjusting operations at key installations, with particular focus on its 1.6-megawatt Agusan hydroelectric plant in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. The run-of-river facility, which has operated for nearly seven decades, currently supplies power to approximately 15,000 households across the region. However, the plant's lack of water storage capacity means it remains vulnerable to reduced water flow during dry weather periods.

The utility is planning a series of maintenance shutdowns and preparing for diminished power generation output as El Niño conditions develop. Industry observers warn that reduced rainfall associated with the weather pattern poses a significant threat to hydroelectric operations throughout Mindanao, which relies heavily on renewable energy sources.

Energy sector officials have indicated that power companies across the region are implementing similar contingency strategies to maintain grid stability during the anticipated weather disruption. Water management authorities are also coordinating with energy firms to address potential impacts on both power generation and domestic water supplies as the dry season intensifies.