DBM releases P969M for rural electrification

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P969.3 million for the implementation of electrification projects in the most remote areas in the country.

In a statement, DBM said it released funds to the National Power Corporation (NPC) for the operational and maintenance needs of the Small Power Utilities Group (SPUG).

Under the law, SPUG is mandated to provide power generation and electrify “missionary areas,” which are not connected to the main transmission grid.

“By putting far-flung areas without electricity on the power grid, we can ensure the gradual economic empowerment and much-needed commercial expansion in these remote communities,” DBM Secretary Florencio Abad said.

The P969.3 million came from NPC’s authorized budget appropriated for 2013, DBM noted.

The amount released will be used for the procurement of spare parts needed for the efficient and optimal operation of power plants in the country.

SPUG operates a total of 312 power plants in 236 service areas with a total installed capacity of  327,523 kilowatts, DBM said.

These power plants provide power to a total of over 670,000 households in 36 provinces.

The off-grid baranggay electrification projects in Cabul-an Island in Bohol, Atulayan Island in Camarines Sur, and Palumbanes Island in Catanduanes that were initiated this year are already 90% completed, the budget department noted. – Cherrie Regalado/Rappler.com