San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp. received regulatory approval to construct a dedicated transmission facility valued at P1.7 billion, enabling the connection of its Masinloc coal‑fired power plant expansion to the Luzon electricity grid.
The Energy Regulatory Commission issued a 19‑page decision authorizing Masinloc Power Co. Ltd. to develop, own, and operate point‑to‑point transmission lines that will link the expanded 700‑megawatt plant in Zambales with the national transmission network.
Masinloc Power Co., a subsidiary of SMGP, currently operates the Masinloc Power Plant. The expansion adds two new generating units, each rated at 350 MW, with completion targeted for 2025 and 2026.
Under the approved plan, the expanded facility will first connect to the Castillejos Substation of the National Grid Corp. before transitioning to the Palauig Substation for permanent service.
The regulator noted that grid connection is a prerequisite for commercial operation, making the new transmission infrastructure essential for delivering power to the system.
SMGP’s capital budget earmarks P15.8 billion for the Masinloc expansion, alongside larger allocations for a 600‑MW coal project in Mariveles, Bataan, and a 1,320‑MW gas‑fired plant in Batangas.
The company's generation portfolio includes natural‑gas, coal, hydropower, battery energy storage, retail electricity supply, and investments in electricity distribution.
