The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported a 6.1 magnitude earthquake with Zambales as the epicenter at 5:11 PM today. 

SEE-SAW FREQUENCY IMPACT

The System Operator, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), initially informed the Department of Energy (DOE) that the earthquake caused a drop in the available capacity of 2009 MW and brought System Frequency to 58.87 Hz. Immediately thereafter, the Automatic Load Drop caused the system to lose a demand of 2,193 MW which brought the System Frequency to 61 Hz. 

The NGCP issued a Red Alert Notice at 5:20 PM due to the multiple trappings. 

POWER PLANTS AND FACILITIES AFFECTED

The plants that were affected are GN Power, Anda, Limay, SCPC, and the two (2) units of Kalayaan plants. 

Kalayaan Units 1 to 4 and Anda are already available. 

SCPC Units 1 and 4 are likewise available but Units 2 and 3 suffered a raptured disc. This can easily be repaired, according to the plant managers. 

The NGCP is still awaiting more information from GN Power and the Limay Plants. 

RESTORATION IN THE WORKS 

The NGCP and the Distribution Utilities are currently restoring load drops in Central Luzon. MERALCO declared a full restoration in their franchise area at 5:39 PM. 

The normalization of the system is ongoing and Market Intervention in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market is in effect.

OTHER AREAS AFFECTED 

The earthquake also caused power interruptions in Pangasinan, Pampanga, La Union, and Bataan. 

The provinces of Quezon, Batangas, Camarines Sur, and Sorsogon were also affected but have been restored.

The DOE will make further updates once more information is available.

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