Agus VI is leaking – electricity production drops

A leak has developed in the Agus VI hydroelectric power plant intake in Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City. Since last February 27, when Mindanao suffered a total power blackout,  rotating brownouts of 3 to 10 hours slow down economy.

Depending on the extent of the damage on Agus VI, the leak could pose a major power problem to Iligan City consumers and affect the Mindanao grid. Agus VI has 5 generating units. Of the possible 270 MW production only 79 MW are available. Generator-Units 3 an 4 do not produce at all and the remaining 3 units far below their maximum capacity.

Agus VI is one of many power plants on the shores of Agus river. In Marawi, Agus river flows out of Lake Lanao.

Maria Cristina Hydro Electric Power Plant (former name of the Agus VI Plant) was constructed in 1950.

If a major repair is needed, 270 MW from the Mindanao grid will be required, aggravating the power shortage. There is already a 210 MW shortage due to the STEAG plant shutdown. A reduction from the grid of more than 400 MW, which includes the possible Agus VI shutdown of 270 MW, added to other grid deficiencies – would result in more rotating brownouts that can affect up to Cagayan de Oro City.

To make the problem worse the short-term outlook is not good, with the expected El Niño phenomenon this summer. Currently we still observe a slight La Niña trend.

Rehabilitation works on the two units of the Agus VI hydroelectric power plant are expected to proceed in October (2014 ?).

Today’s power situation:

[GARD]