Philippines gives nod to upgrade at vital hydropower plant

Boosts turbine capacity at Binga plant to 30 MW.

The Philippines' Energy Regulatory Commission has granted a certificate of compliance to SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet for the operation of all four turbine units at the 125.8 MW Binga hydropower plant.

The upgrade increased the capacity of Binga's hydro turbines from 25 MW to 30 MW, and increased the lifespan of the plant by 50 years.

Other work included constructing a new intake and headrace; replacing electro-mechanical components and modernizing the plant's control systems.

Binga is part of a complex that also includes the 105 MW Ambuklao hydroelectric plant. Ambuklao entered commercial operation in 1956 with Binga following in 1960.

SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet, a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power, announced the refurbishment project in 2011.