Negros Power Reduces Electricity Losses With Anti-Pilferage Campaign
In just under a year of operations, Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) has made major strides in cutting electricity system losses in Central Negros. Through a combination of aggressive enforcement, infrastructure modernization, and community involvement, the company has brought its system loss rate down from 11.84% in August 2024 to 8.03% as of May 2025 — below the interim cap set by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) at 8.25%.
This development marks a turning point for the power utility and the communities it serves, demonstrating how strategic and collaborative efforts can restore efficiency and fairness to a public service system.
Curbing Theft Through Targeted Operations
At the heart of this achievement is a sweeping anti-pilferage drive. Between November 2024 and June 25, 2025, Negros Power uncovered 789 illegal service connections and 1,156 unauthorized load-side connections. These discoveries stemmed from 1,704 site inspections, meeting 96% of the company’s enforcement coverage target.
The effort is not merely punitive, but designed to ensure that all legitimate consumers receive stable, safe, and fairly priced electricity. As Engr. Edwin Montemayor, System Loss Reduction Consultant, explained:
“This is more than enforcement. It’s about ensuring every household enjoys fair, stable, and safe electricity.”
To support this campaign, the company installed 153 check meters and ramped up regular monitoring in areas prone to unauthorized connections. Legal proceedings have already begun, with two criminal cases filed against repeat offenders — signaling the utility’s resolve to uphold the law and protect consumers.
Investing in Modernization
Beyond enforcement, Negros Power is also modernizing its grid to reduce technical losses and improve reliability. A key component of this strategy is the replacement of outdated and faulty meters. As of May 2025, the company has upgraded 13,308 meters across its franchise area, resulting in more accurate billing and greater accountability.
These meter upgrades are part of the broader System Loss Reduction Program (SLRP), a comprehensive initiative aimed at building a smarter, more resilient energy infrastructure in Central Negros.
According to Roel Z. Castro, President and CEO of Negros Power, the focus is on long-term transformation:
“Our strategy is clear: clean up the grid, modernize our systems, and uphold accountability. These numbers show real impact — and this is just the beginning.”
A Call for Community Cooperation
While the technical and enforcement efforts are essential, Negros Power is also calling on the public to participate actively in safeguarding the integrity of the electric system.
Consumers are encouraged to report suspicious activities or anomalies and to stay informed about how electricity theft affects everyone. Theft and illegal connections not only lead to higher system losses, but also compromise safety and place financial burdens on honest-paying consumers.
Castro emphasized this point in his message to the public:
“Progress happens when the community works with us. Report anomalies. Be vigilant. Help us build a transparent, reliable power network for all.”
Toward a Transparent and Efficient Future
Negros Power’s progress in reducing system loss reflects a shift toward more accountable, transparent, and community-focused power distribution in Central Negros. With ongoing meter upgrades, sustained anti-pilferage campaigns, and stronger public partnerships, the company aims to maintain its momentum in delivering improved and equitable service.
As Negros Power continues to modernize its systems and enforce strict safeguards, consumers can look forward to a power network that is not only more efficient, but also more just and dependable.
