Negros Power Completes Bacolod-Silay 69kV Line Upgrade, Boosts Grid Stability In Central Negros
Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) has successfully completed the full rehabilitation and upgrade of the 30-kilometer Bacolod–Silay 69-kilovolt (kV) sub-transmission line — a critical project aimed at improving grid reliability and minimizing power interruptions in Central Negros.
A Major Step Toward Reliable Energy Service
The upgraded high-voltage line links the substations of Negros Power and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), playing a vital role in powering homes and businesses across the franchise area.
Covering nearly 30 circuit kilometers, the project involved structural inspections and the replacement of 266 support structures across seven key segments. One of the most impactful improvements was the shift from old, fragile porcelain insulators to more durable polymer ones — effectively eliminating one of the leading causes of frequent outages.
“Before we began this upgrade, we were experiencing two to three unscheduled outages weekly due to broken insulators. Today, I can confidently report that since December 2024, we’ve had zero failures,” shared Roel Z. Castro, President and CEO of Negros Power, during a recent stakeholder briefing.
Overcoming Terrain Challenges
The project wasn’t without its difficulties. Of the 277 poles along the route, 103 were located in off-road areas — rough terrain such as muddy fields and sugarcane plantations. These conditions made access challenging and demanded intensive manual work from linemen and engineers.
Despite this, the rehabilitation project reached 100% completion, showcasing the dedication of the teams involved and the company’s commitment to infrastructure resilience.
Industry and Community Support
The upgrade has received strong support from local business leaders and energy stakeholders. Frank Carbon, Co-Chair of the Energy and Power Committee of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) for Visayas, praised the initiative, saying, “Stable and modern power is essential to economic growth. The direction Negros Power is taking is exactly what Bacolod and the rest of Central Negros need.”
Looking Ahead
With this major sub-transmission line upgrade complete, Negros Power is one step closer to realizing its broader modernization agenda. The company is positioning itself not only as a provider of electricity but as a long-term development partner for the communities it serves.
“This project is more than just wires and poles — it’s a commitment to our consumers,” Castro emphasized. “We are laying down the foundation for a stronger, safer, and more efficient power system for Central Negros.”
The completion of the Bacolod–Silay line upgrade reinforces Negros Power’s role as a forward-looking utility that prioritizes both service reliability and long-term infrastructure development — ensuring that progress continues to reach every household and business in its coverage area.
