A new project of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) is expected to bring more reliable power transmission services to 60 barangays in nine municipalities of Bohol island. NGCP launched on September 8 the Bohol Backbone Transmission Project in Brgy. Sambog, Corella, Bohol where a new substation will be constructed along with the expansion of NGCP�fs existing Ubay Substation.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Corella Substation was attended by local government officials led by Bohol Governor Edgar M. Chatto, Corella Mayor Jose Nicanor D. Tocmo, Ubay Mayor Eutiquio M. Bernales, representatives from distribution utilities, directly connected customers, and project contractors Xian Electric Engineering Co. and Hyosung Corporation.

NGCP President and CEO Mr. Henry T. Sy Jr., through his representative and senior technical adviser Mr. Guillermo R. Redoblado, acknowledged the support and endorsement of local officials in Bohol who paved the way for the smooth implementation of the project. Mr. Sy said he is confident that the more reliable power transmission services in Bohol will attract more investments and create job opportunities in the province.

�gThe project will not only benefit Bohol but also the whole Visayas in the long run. This is will reinforce the high�]voltage transmission backbone and ensure that the power grid remains secure and reliable,�h Sy said.

The project involves the expansion of Ubay Substation and the construction of the new Corella Substation with power system protection. A new 100-MVA power transformer will be installed at Corella Substation. Ninety�]five (95) km of 138�]kV overhead transmission lines utilizing steel tower structures will be installed to connect the two substations. Both substation and transmission line components of the project are expected to be completed in January 2012.

The project aims to (1) accommodate load growth in support of the Bohol island�fs socioeconomic development; (2) improve voltage levels in Bohol as prescribed by the Philippine Grid Code; and (3) enhance system reliability, provide operational flexibility, and maintain power quality delivered to electricity users.