Senate President Win Gatchalian has called on the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to accelerate the modernization of the country’s power grid, saying it is essential to ensure a more reliable and affordable electricity supply amid rising power costs.

Gatchalian stressed that a more efficient and flexible grid is crucial as the country expands its renewable energy capacity and shifts toward electric vehicles. His appeal came after Meralco announced another increase in electricity rates driven by higher generation costs due to rising fuel prices and taxes.

The Senate leader said modernized power grids can better integrate decentralized energy resources such as residential solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations, enabling consumers to both draw electricity from and supply excess power back to the grid.

He added that an upgraded grid would also allow surplus renewable energy generated during peak production hours to be stored in large-scale battery systems for later use, improving system efficiency, reducing power losses, and enhancing electricity delivery.

According to Gatchalian, accelerating grid modernization is key to building a more resilient power system and achieving long-term, affordable electricity for Filipino consumers.