TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Bohol Governor Erico Aumentado has called for the fast-tracking of the Cantakoy Falls hydropower development at the Wahig-Pamacsalan River to help address the looming power crisis in the region.

Aumentado divulged the possibility of the effects of the planned power rationing in the Visayas grid as a result of reduced power outputs due to critical water levels running the country’s hydro-electric plants.

He hinted that since the Visayas Grid shares a common power source, there is a possibility of making sure that important power requirements of major industrial and commercial centers would be prioritized.

That scenario leaves some areas with decreased power, which may result to rotating brown-outs or power rationing.

The Bohol governor, who said he intends to meet with Bohol power providers and officials of the National Grid Corporation (formerly National Power Corporation), said he wants to be assessed of the local situation by the players themselves.

He also insists that he has made it a policy to come up with consultations to come up with any decision.

Aumentado also revealed he has met with officials of Sta. Clara Development Corporation, which has initially shown interest in developing hydropower in Cantakoy Falls.

At present, Bohol power requirements come mainly from the upgraded 138 KV Leyte Bohol Power Interconnection Project.

This is also complemented by three Bohol-based hydroelectric power plants, each capable of at least 2.5 KV of power, separate sources revealed.

The additional capability of another 2.5 KV in Cantakoy would also increase Bohol’s power significantly.