DOE to power generation firms: Ensure power supply reliability amid vaccine rollout

The Department of Energy (DOE) has directed all power generation companies to ensure reliable and stable electric power supply during the government’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout.

The latest directive complements the earlier DOE order to power distribution utilities issued on February 16, 2021 for the same purpose. 

In an advisory dated March 2, 2021, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi ordered power generation firms, including government owned and controlled corporations as well as private sector-operated and/or owned generation facilities, to undertake the following:

• Ensure availability of generating facilities at the maximum dependable capacity
• Compliance with the Grid Operating and Maintenance Program for 2021
• Manage the water reservoir to have optimal production of hydroelectric power plants when they are most needed

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• Secure adequate fuel supplies and maintain reasonable fuel inventories
• Arrange back-up personnel in power plants and additional maintenance crew to assist in case of emergencies
• Augment security forces in major power plant installations, as needed
• Ensure that emergency response protocols and Business Continuity Plans are updated to include utmost prioritization of COVID-19 vaccine cold storage facilities and healthcare facilities in cases of power outages
• Provide necessary support for COVID-19 vaccine cold storage facilities and healthcare facilities installing their own back-up power supply, as needed
• Coordinate with concerned local government units regarding the locations/stations of cold storage facilities for COVID-19 vaccines

“The DOE is working non-stop to establish an uninterrupted supply of electricity services at the onset of the vaccine rollout by the end of Q1 of 2021. We have been meeting with the members of the energy family to fortify our strategies,” Cusi said. — Ted Cordero/RSJ, GMA News