Riding the Waves of Innovation: AboitizPower’s Game-Changing Hybrid BESS

COURTESY:  Aboitiz Power Corporation

Guess what? AboitizPower subsidiary Therma Marine just made a splash—literally! They recently held a ceremonial switch-on for Southeast Asia’s first 49-megawatt hybrid Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) mounted on a floating platform. Yeah, you read that right. This isn't your typical land-based power system; it's floating on water in Maco, Davao de Oro.

With this bad boy, additional power can be released whenever it’s needed. Think of it as a power bank for the grid, ensuring the electricity system is both stable and reliable. It’s been commercially available since November 2022, and it’s already making waves (pun intended) in the energy sector. This hybrid BESS is designed to complement the company’s diesel engines, providing those much-needed ancillary services that keep everything running smoothly.

AboitizPower isn’t shy about sharing the credit for this revolutionary initiative. They’ve expressed immense appreciation for all their partners and relevant stakeholders. After all, it takes a village to float a 49-megawatt battery system. 

These partnerships are more than just business relationships; they’re collaborative ventures that push the boundaries of what’s possible. From engineers to local government units, everyone pitched in to make this dream a reality. And it’s a dream that promises to enhance the Philippines’ energy landscape for the better.

So, why a floating platform? Well, it’s all about efficiency and innovation. Building on water allows for easier scalability and less environmental disruption compared to land-based installations. Plus, it’s just plain cool. Imagine cruising by and seeing a high-tech energy system bobbing up and down on the waves. 

But it’s not just about looking good. This floating hybrid BESS is designed to complement Therma Marine’s diesel engines, providing backup power when the grid needs it most. This means fewer blackouts and more reliable electricity for everyone. It’s a win-win situation that showcases the potential of hybrid energy solutions.

Since its commercial debut in November 2022, this floating hybrid BESS has been a game-changer. It’s already proving to be a reliable source of additional power, especially during peak demand times. This enhances the stability and reliability of the entire electricity system, making it a crucial asset for the future.

AboitizPower’s latest venture isn’t just a technological marvel; it’s a statement. It says, “We’re here to innovate, to lead, and to make a difference.” And they’re doing just that, one floating battery at a time.

In conclusion, the ceremonial switch-on of this 49-megawatt hybrid BESS marks a new chapter in Southeast Asia’s energy story. AboitizPower subsidiary Therma Marine has not only set a new standard but has also shown what’s possible when innovation meets collaboration.

So here’s to riding the waves of innovation and looking forward to a brighter, more reliable energy future. Cheers to AboitizPower and all their partners for making this revolutionary initiative come alive. The Philippines’ energy landscape is forever changed, and we’re all better for it.

AboitizPower's Trailblazing Hybrid Battery Storage System in Davao de Oro

CREDIT: Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower)

In a momentous leap for Southeast Asia's energy sector, Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) has set a new benchmark with the inauguration of its 49-megawatt (MW) hybrid Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on a floating platform in Maco, Davao de Oro. This pioneering project, spearheaded by AboitizPower's subsidiary Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI), marks the first of its kind in the region, offering a novel solution to the growing demand for reliable and sustainable energy.

The hybrid BESS, designed to store and dispatch electricity as needed, stands as a testament to the innovative spirit driving AboitizPower forward. This system not only augments the existing energy supply but also ensures the stability and quality of the power grid, demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to enhancing the Philippines' energy landscape.

At the heart of this groundbreaking initiative is a technology that promises to redefine how energy is stored and utilized. The BESS uses an array of batteries to capture electrical energy, making it available on demand to support the grid during peak times or when renewable energy sources are insufficient. This flexibility is crucial in an era where the integration of renewable energy into the power mix is increasing.

The addition of the BESS to TMI’s existing diesel engines will provide essential ancillary services, including contingency and dispatchable reserves. These are vital for maintaining transmission capacity and ensuring grid stability, ultimately contributing to uninterrupted electricity provision of the highest quality.

The operationalization of the BESS since November 30, 2022, opens new avenues for incorporating variable renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into the grid. As these renewable energies are prone to intermittency, the BESS serves as a critical buffer, ensuring a steady and reliable power supply. This capability is pivotal for the Philippines, where the need for sustainable and efficient energy solutions is ever-growing.

Ronaldo Ramos, AboitizPower Thermal Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the significance of the BESS in accommodating the dynamic energy needs of the Philippines. This project not only addresses the immediate requirements of grid stability and quality power supply but also paves the way for the integration of more renewable energy sources into the country's energy mix.

The journey to this innovation began in 1994, when TMI’s power barge was first stationed in Maco, Davao de Oro, to mitigate a power crisis in Mindanao. Three decades later, AboitizPower continues to serve Mindanao's energy needs, now leveraging advanced technology to meet the evolving demands of the grid and the region's energy consumers.

The BESS inauguration is a milestone that underscores AboitizPower's long-standing commitment to improving the quality of life in the Philippines. Department of Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella commended AboitizPower for its proactive approach to energy efficiency, conservation, and the integration of renewable energy sources, highlighting the project as a model of meaningful collaboration.

Looking ahead, AboitizPower is not resting on its laurels. The company has set ambitious targets to significantly increase its renewable energy capacity, aiming for 3,700 MW of new RE capacity en route to 4,600 MW by 2030. This endeavor aligns with the Philippine government's goal of achieving a 35% RE share in the national energy mix by 2030, encompassing solar, geothermal, hydro, and wind projects.

Moreover, AboitizPower is exploring the potential of low-carbon technologies, including liquified natural gas (LNG), nuclear energy, and smart power plants. These initiatives are testament to AboitizPower's dedication to a balanced energy portfolio that supports the Philippines' transition to a sustainable energy future while ensuring energy security.

The inauguration of the hybrid BESS in Davao de Oro is more than just a ceremonial switch-on; it's a bold step into the future of energy in Southeast Asia. AboitizPower's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and resilience shines through this project, offering a glimpse into the future of energy generation and storage. As the region moves towards a greener, more sustainable energy landscape, AboitizPower leads the way, powering progress and enriching lives.