The National Electrification Administration (NEA) has issued a memorandum urging all electric cooperatives (ECs) to observe due diligence to ensure the continuity of electricity supply to COVID-19 vaccine cold storage facilities and administration sites in their respective coverage areas.
NEA Administrator Edgardo Masongsong issued Memorandum No. 2021-018 dated May 17, 2021, to 121 ECs following reports that over 300 vials of Sinovac vaccines were spoiled in Makilala, North Cotabato following a power interruption.
The ECs were also advised to conduct an information drive and orientation for local government staff involved in vaccination program about basic protocols during power interruptions and restoration procedures.
“All ECs are advised to coordinate with the building administrator of vaccine storage facilities and sites in their respective franchise areas to discuss and make a strategic plan of action on joint inspection of the facilities, basic protocols during power interruptions, and restoration procedures,” Masongsong said.
The NEA said the minimum standards and requirements on time of power availability, control, switching, protection for healthcare facilities and other related critical structures shall follow the guidelines of the Philippine Electrical Code.
It also emphasized the sources of backup power, which may include storage battery, generator sets, uninterruptible power supply, separate service drop fuel cell system and unit equipment.
“Per usual industry practice, the building/facility owners usually install backup (power) especially when critical loads are involved. If this is not the case, please coordinate with your LGU for possible assistance on the provision of backup power,” the electrification agency noted.
The application of automatic transfer switches is also important and necessary for healthcare facilities and emergency systems.
It also emphasized the sources of backup power, which may include storage battery, generator sets, uninterruptible power supply, separate service drop, fuel cell system, and unit equipment.
The ECs were also advised to conduct an information drive and orientation for local government staff involved in vaccination program about basic protocols during power interruptions and restoration procedures.
“ECs with histories of having frequent power interruptions, temporary or sustained, are highly encouraged to implement sterner precautionary measures,” the NEA chief said, adding that these measures must include enhanced line clearing activities and availability of maintenance teams during emergency situations.