Six Months With Negros Power: Progress And Commitment To Improvement

Six months have passed since Negros Power took over electricity distribution in Bacolod City and Central Negros. Much like an employee completing their probationary period, it’s time to assess their performance. Has Negros Power delivered on its promises? While challenges remain, it’s undeniable that significant progress has been made in modernizing and improving the power infrastructure.

A Critical Transition Period

When Negros Power took over operations on August 1, 2024, it inherited an aging and deteriorating power grid. The company immediately launched a five-year rehabilitation and modernization plan to address long-standing issues. The first six months were crucial in setting the foundation for long-term improvements, and while consumers have had to endure planned interruptions, these are necessary steps toward a more stable and reliable power supply.

Why Planned Interruptions Are Necessary

One of the main concerns raised by consumers is the frequency of scheduled power interruptions. While inconvenient, these are essential for the much-needed upgrades and repairs that will prevent larger, more prolonged outages in the future.

Negros Power schedules these interruptions early in the morning, minimizing disruption to businesses, offices, and schools. Although this timing may not be ideal for everyone, it is the least disruptive overall. Moreover, working during these hours presents additional challenges for linemen, who must take extra precautions to ensure safety. This also increases operational costs due to overtime and night premiums, demonstrating the company’s commitment to balancing progress with consumer convenience.

Tangible Improvements in Six Months

Despite the challenges, there have been notable improvements in the power distribution system:

• Upgrading of Infrastructure: Negros Power has rehabilitated substations and installed new equipment to enhance reliability.
• Implementation of Automatic Circuit Reclosers (ACRs): These devices help reduce the duration of power outages by automatically restoring electricity when minor issues occur.
• Expanded Customer Service Channels: Recognizing the importance of communication, the company has increased personnel handling customer inquiries and actively engages with consumers through social media updates.
• Commitment to Long-Term Stability: Investments in modernizing the power grid are ongoing, ensuring better service in the coming years.

Addressing Consumer Concerns

Negros Power acknowledges that there is still work to be done. Consumers have voiced concerns about customer service response times and billing issues, and the company is taking steps to improve in these areas. Increased manpower for handling inquiries, regular updates on scheduled maintenance, and efforts to streamline billing processes are all part of Negros Power’s commitment to enhancing customer experience.

The Road Ahead

While six months is not enough time to completely transform an aging power grid, Negros Power has made steady progress. The real test will be in the coming years as they continue to implement their five-year development plan. The company’s proactive approach, transparent communication, and willingness to address concerns show that they are on the right track.

For consumers, patience and cooperation during this transition period will lead to a stronger and more reliable power system in the long run. Negros Power’s journey has just begun, but the commitment to better service and infrastructure is evident. The next six months will be another step toward ensuring a brighter and more stable energy future for Bacolod and Central Negros.