Negros Power Surpasses Early Targets In Five-Year Development Plan

Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) has made significant strides in its first year of operations, surpassing initial targets set under its five-year development plan. Despite facing major challenges during its transition from the Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO), the utility company remains on track to deliver improved and sustainable power services to Central Negros.

A Challenging but Productive First Year

During the “Negros Power Shares Milestones To The Press” forum in Bacolod City, company President and Chief Executive Officer Roel Castro described the first year of operations as a period filled with trials. One of the toughest tests came when the Alijis Substation, a 37.5 MVA facility in Bacolod City, suffered an internal explosion, temporarily affecting power for about 47,000 customers.

Despite these hurdles, Negros Power has already accomplished milestones earlier than expected. Among these is the reduction of system loss from 12 percent at the time of takeover to just 7 percent — a major improvement that reflects better efficiency and tighter controls.

Investments in Infrastructure and Expansion

Negros Power has so far invested approximately PHP 1.2 billion out of the PHP 2.5 billion allotted for its five-year plan. The budget covers rehabilitation projects, upgrades, and initiatives aimed at improving reliability and expanding service coverage. Castro assured that if more resources are required, the company is prepared to allocate additional funds.

A key priority is sitio energization. Contrary to initial concerns that such projects would stop after the transition from CENECO, Negros Power has already energized 30 sitios, bringing electricity to over 1,000 families. With a total budget of PHP 250 million, the company aims to complete the energization of 232 sitios across its franchise area within three years.

Commitment to Renewable Energy

Negros Power is also making progress in integrating clean energy into its power mix. About 33 percent of its supply, equivalent to 40 megawatts, is sourced from geothermal plants operated by Green Core Geothermal Inc. and Energy Development Corp. This focus on renewable energy supports both environmental sustainability and energy reliability in the region.

Modernization and Underground Cabling

As part of its modernization efforts, Negros Power has initiated underground cabling projects to improve safety and aesthetics along major roads. The initial project covers a 300-meter stretch along Lacson Street in Bacolod City. While the company is currently able to remove only its own lines, Castro expressed optimism about working with other utilities to expand the initiative further.

Looking Ahead

With several milestones already achieved ahead of schedule, Negros Power is positioning itself as a forward-looking utility provider committed to efficiency, sustainability, and consumer welfare. Castro assured residents that the improvements seen in the first year are only the beginning.

“If there’s one thing that Negros Power can assure the consumers in its franchise area,” he said, “it’s that things will just get better.”