Negros Power To Build Two New Substations In Bacolod To Support Growing Electricity Demand

As Bacolod City continues to grow, the demand for a stable and reliable electricity supply is becoming more critical. In response to this increasing need, Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) has announced plans to develop two new substations, a move seen as a major step in strengthening the power infrastructure across Central Negros.

New Substations to Boost Capacity

The planned substations will be located in key areas of Bacolod City, strategically positioned to support both current and future demand:

• Provincial Capitol (San Juan Street, Bacolod City) – targeted for completion by the end of 2026
• Megaworld’s Upper East Township – expected to be operational by early 2027

Once completed, these additions will raise the total number of substations within Negros Power’s network from 11 to 13 by mid-2027. This expansion is expected to significantly improve system capacity and operational flexibility.

Substations play a vital role in the distribution of electricity. They regulate voltage and ensure that power is delivered safely and efficiently to households, businesses, and industries. With the addition of these two facilities, the utility aims to prevent overloading and maintain consistent service amid rising demand.

Supporting a Growing City

The infrastructure expansion comes at a time when electricity consumption continues to rise, driven by population growth, increasing business activity, and major property developments. Without additional capacity, existing substations could reach critical load levels in the coming years.

Project data indicates that several facilities are already operating near their limits. The new Capitol and Megaworld substations are expected to ease this pressure by redistributing electrical load and improving the overall performance of the network.

Complementary Line Upgrades

Alongside the construction of the substations, Negros Power is also enhancing its 69kV sub-transmission lines to ensure efficient power delivery across the system.

Key projects include:

✅ A 2.4-kilometer line connecting the Gonzaga Substation to the new Capitol Substation

✅ A 1.6-kilometer line feeding into the Megaworld Substation

✅ A 0.7-kilometer connection linking Megaworld to Gonzaga

✅ The rehabilitation of the Bacolod-Bata line, which will significantly increase its capacity

These improvements are designed to support the new substations while strengthening the overall grid, helping reduce outages and stabilize voltage levels.

Investment and Ongoing Development

The development of the two substations forms part of a broader infrastructure program. Each facility is estimated to cost between ₱200 million and ₱250 million, with additional funding allocated for transmission upgrades.

Over the past 19 months, Negros Power has already invested approximately ₱1.3 billion in system rehabilitation. These efforts have resulted in measurable improvements in service reliability, including:

• A 38% reduction in the frequency of power interruptions (SAIFI)
• A 67% reduction in the duration of outages (SAIDI)

The company has also completed around 39% of its five-year development plan, indicating steady progress toward its long-term modernization goals.

What This Means for Consumers

For consumers, these developments are expected to translate into a more reliable and efficient electricity service. While some scheduled interruptions may occur during construction, these are necessary steps toward building a stronger and more resilient power network.

The expanded infrastructure will not only address current electricity needs but also support future developments, including new residential communities, commercial hubs, and industrial projects.

Moving Toward a More Reliable Grid

The planned construction of the Capitol and Megaworld substations reflects Negros Power’s continued commitment to upgrading its distribution system. As Bacolod City and nearby areas continue to develop, investments in modern infrastructure will play a crucial role in ensuring that power supply remains stable, efficient, and capable of meeting growing demand.

With these projects underway, the company is laying the groundwork for a more dependable and future-ready electricity network across Central Negros.