The mining industry in Mindanao is expected to be the key driver of future energy demand on the island, according to Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno. He met with Energy Secretary Sharon Garin to discuss the need for a stable and sufficient power supply in Mindanao due to rising energy demand from stronger economic activities. The meeting focused on securing sufficient firm baseload capacity and accelerating the deployment of renewable energy solutions, such as solar power with battery energy storage systems, to support grid requirements. Magno emphasized that Mindanao’s energy future must be secured through a balanced mix of firm baseload and renewable energy sources, and committed to working closely with the Department of Energy and private sector developers to ensure power planning for 2026-2028 remains responsive to demand. The growth of the mining sector, including the Silangan copper-gold project and the Tampakan copper-gold project, is anticipated to drive energy demand, with mining being one of the world’s most energy-intensive industries. MinDA is pushing for a 50:50 energy mix by 2030, with the current Mindanao power grid consisting of 69% fossil fuels and 31% renewable energy.
