DNV is helping a Philippine battery energy storage project advance to commercial use

DNV provided engineering services to SN Aboitiz Power Group (SNAP), a joint venture between Scatec and AboitizPower for a stationary BESS intended for use in frequency regulation and balancing services. The system with a capacity of 24MW/32MWh at the connection point began commercial operation on the reserve market in January.

The storage system, located near the SNAP hydroelectric power plant, uses liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries and is connected to the grid via a 230 kV power transformer. The Magat Reservoir in Isabela is also home to SNAP’s 200 kWp floating solar pilot project.

As technical advisor to SNAP, DNV conducted a feasibility study of the project and provided support during bid evaluation and contract negotiations. In addition, the scope of DNV’s work included reviews of technical designs, inspections of factories and construction sites, observation and preparation of reports in both the pre- and final phases.

While the Philippines has not yet explicitly announced a net-zero emissions target, it has outlined plans to transition to renewable energy. The government’s renewable energy roadmap aims to achieve a 35 percent share of renewable energy in the country’s power generation mix by 2030. BESS technology is expected to support the Philippines’ energy transformation plans, in particular SNAP’s Magat facility will increase the flexibility of the power grid, reduce consumption energy temperature fluctuations and optimize energy distribution.

Energy storage systems are expected to play a key role in the Philippines, offering the following benefits:

Supporting growing energy demand: The Philippines’ population is estimated to reach 142 million by 2045, representing an annual growth rate of 1.21 percent, more than twice the average growth rate in Asia. As a result, the country is facing increased energy demand due to its rapidly growing population. Energy storage will play a key role in maintaining a stable grid by balancing supply and demand.

Increasing grid stability and resilience through the integration of renewable energy sources: When renewable energy sources are integrated into the grid, the BESS buffers power fluctuations, regulates frequency and provides reserve in emergency situations, ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply.

Strengthening decarbonization targets: The Philippines is a signatory to the Paris Agreement and has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Energy storage facilitates the integration of renewable energy, supporting the transition to a cleaner energy mix.

“We are delighted to work on the SNAP project, which sets a precedent for innovative solutions to drive the transformation and resilience of the energy sector in the Philippines,” said Brice Le Gallo, vice president and regional director, APAC, Energy Systems at DNV. “As our region navigates a dynamic energy demand and sustainability landscape, battery storage systems have become a key pillar of the energy transition. By harnessing the power of stored energy, we unlock new opportunities: grid stability, seamless integration of renewable energy sources and greater energy security.

In addition to working on energy storage projects for customers, DNV conducts relevant industry initiatives. The publicly available Battery Scorecard provides free insight into the technology readiness, degradation, lifespan and safety of energy storage batteries. The company recently launched a collaborative industry project aimed at ensuring the sustainability, reliability and environmental responsibility of power transformers, a key element of energy infrastructure.

Additional information:

DNV

SN Aboitiz Energy Group