SNAP-Magat’s hydroelectric plant to begin operations

SN ABOITIZ Power-Magat, Inc.’s (SNAPMagat) 8.5-megawatt (MW) Maris Main Canal 1 hydroelectric power plant is set for full commercial operation this month as it completed the commissioning of the facility’s two separate units.

“Maris hydro is very special not only because it is the first power plant we built from the ground up. This project was proposed by our Magat operations and maintenance team, and then developed and implemented by our business development group,” said Joseph S. Yu, SNAP-Magat president and chief executive officer, in a statement.

Maris hydro is the first power plant built by SNAP group since it acquired the 380-MW Magat hydro plant when it was privatized in 2007. SNAP-Magat is a joint venture of SN Power of Norway and Aboitiz Power Corp.

The SNAP-Magat plant is made up of two units of Kaplan pit type turbines with generator nameplate capacity of 4.25 MW each. The first unit was commissioned on Oct. 24 while the second was commissioned on Nov. 6.

“It is truly a demonstration of excellence and teamwork, and of SNAP’s commitment to help bring positive change in host communities, the power industry, and the country,” Mr. Yu said.

SNAP-Magat took about two years to build the $47-million run-of-river hydro plant in Brgy. Ambatali in Ramon, Isabela. The plant uses the water coming from Magat hydro that goes into the Maris re-regulating dam located downstream of Magat, before flowing into the Maris main (south) irrigation canal.

The company said the project was made possible with the cooperation of National Irrigation Administration, Department of Energy, host communities and local government units.

“During the commissioning, the plant was synchronized to the grid and underwent a series of tests in compliance with the requirements of the Philippine Grid Code,” the company said. “SNAP also cascaded protocols with stakeholders in preparation for commercial operation.” —