MORE Power, Iloilo City’s power distribution utility, has energized its newly rehabilitated Molo Substation, a significant step in its five-year development plan to enhance power infrastructure across the metropolis. The Php 60 million upgrade, which began on July 5, 2023, was conducted in partnership with EEI Power Corporation, focusing on modernizing the substation’s outdated systems to improve reliability and efficiency.
Previously plagued by equipment malfunctions after 23 years of service without major maintenance, Molo Substation has now undergone comprehensive upgrades. This includes replacing obsolete switchgear, control systems, and other key components, resulting in a facility that is both more robust and automated. According to MORE Power, these updates are crucial in meeting Iloilo’s growing energy demands driven by residential and commercial expansion in the Molo area.
“We are thrilled to bring this newly upgraded facility online, as it represents a core element of our mission to provide Iloilo City with a stable, efficient, and future-ready electricity supply,” said Roel Z. Castro, President and CEO of MORE Power, during a press conference on Thursday, October 10.
State-of-the-Art Technology Integration
The new 25/30 MVA Molo substation incorporates advanced technology, such as gas-insulated switchgear and smart monitoring systems, making it one of the most modern power facilities in the region. An innovative in-out system configuration was also installed to minimize the risk of power outages, especially during peak demand periods. This reconfigured system allows for quick rerouting of electricity if a fault is detected on any transmission line segment. Additionally, the substation is now integrated with MORE Power’s SCADA system — the first of its kind among distribution utilities in Panay and one of the few in the Philippines — enabling real-time monitoring and control over power distribution.
“As a result, any power interruption will be minimized, greatly enhancing service reliability for both residential and commercial customers. The integration of this modern substation into Iloilo City’s power system also allows for smarter load management, ensuring that MORE Power can swiftly respond to fluctuations in demand,” Castro added.
While the Molo Substation underwent rehabilitation, a 30/36 MVA mobile substation was deployed to provide uninterrupted service. With the completion of the Molo Substation, the mobile unit will now be relocated to the Mandurriao Substation, which is scheduled for its own upgrade starting this October.
Commitment to Iloilo City’s Growth
The Molo Substation upgrade is part of MORE Power’s broader five-year development plan, which aims to strengthen Iloilo City’s power infrastructure. As part of this initiative, MORE Power plans to transfer a significant portion of the Molo Substation’s load to the newly constructed Arevalo Substation early next year, further boosting the reliability of the city’s power distribution network.
“This transition is a vital step in our mission to enhance power distribution throughout Iloilo City, ultimately improving the daily lives and business operations of our consumers,” MORE Power noted.
Through these ongoing upgrades, MORE Power reaffirms its commitment to supporting Iloilo City’s growth and improving the quality of life for its residents. The modernized Molo Substation not only ensures more efficient power management but also enables a quicker response to changing energy demands, ensuring a reliable electricity supply for the city’s growing population and business community.
