TransCo to Mindoro consumers: Avoid unnecessary power consumption

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — The National Transmission Corporation (TransCo) said that households and businesses in Mindoro can help manage electricity supply amid a possible strong El Niño by cutting down on unnecessary power use, especially during the dry season when hydropower output may drop.

TransCo President and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Joseph Omar Castillo made the appeal in a recent radio interview, noting that Mindoro draws around 12 to 14 megawatts from hydropower, making water availability a critical concern during an extended dry spell.

“In Mindoro, we expect 12 to 14 megawatts from hydro. If El Niño comes and the dry period drags on, supply from hydro may become limited. That is why saving electricity on the part of consumers is also very important,” Castillo said.

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He warned the dry season could stretch for four to five months and hurt hydropower generation, adding that reliable power‑plant operations and scheduled maintenance will also be vital in managing available supply.

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Castillo urged the public to turn off lights and appliances when not needed, unplug devices that draw power on standby, and set air‑conditioners to more efficient levels.

“There are many things we can do at home. Turn off appliances and unplug them when appropriate. For the air‑conditioner, instead of setting it at 18 degrees, you can set it at 24 degrees. These are simple things, but they can make a big difference if we all do them together,” he said, adding thay these steps can also help households control their monthly electricity bills during periods of high demand.

Castillo said keeping the power system stable requires effort from both the supply and demand sides. Power firms must maintain generating facilities and transmission lines, while consumers must use electricity wisely.

He also acknowledged that system operations cannot prevent every power interruption, especially when power plants or transmission facilities run into trouble.

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Castillo encouraged the public to follow energy‑saving advisories from the Department of Energy and other agencies as preparations continue for the possible impacts of El Niño.

“If all of us save electricity, this will help manage the available supply,” Castillo said. /ms