Negros Power Corporation (NEPC) is on the verge of a significant milestone as it awaits approval to operate as a power distribution utility in Bacolod City and Central Negros. The community is eager for the anticipated improvements in power services. As Negros Power have a five-year development plan, top on their list is to reduce system loss by converting illegal connections to legal ones. This initiative aims to provide everyone with a legal connection and ensure accurate billing.
NEPC’s One-Month Amnesty: Encouraging Legal Connections
The Issue of Illegal Connections
Illegal connections have long been a problem in Central Negros, contributing to system loss and affecting those with legal connections. With a system loss cap around 8%, part of the consumers’ bills goes to cover electricity they didn’t use, largely due to illegal connections.
The Amnesty Program
To address this, NEPC is offering a one-month amnesty for over 6,000 households and establishments with illegal connections. During this period, these consumers can legalize their connections and install an electric meter without facing penalties or backbilling for past usage. This initiative aims to make the transition to legal connections smooth and convenient. This move is inspired by a successful program by their sister company, MORE Power, in Iloilo City.
Why Amnesty Matters
The amnesty program is a strategic move to enhance service quality. By legalizing connections, NEPC can better manage the power distribution network, reducing system losses and ensuring fair billing. It also helps informal settlers and underserved communities by making it easier to apply for a connection, promoting a more inclusive distribution system.
NEPC’s Preparations and Plans
Infrastructure Readiness
NEPC is ready with 30,000 new electric meters to support the expected increase in legal connections, ensuring reliable and efficient power distribution.
Operational Readiness
While waiting for their franchise approval, NEPC has been collaborating with CENECO on rehabilitating distribution lines to ensure a smooth transition. This includes upgrading and maintaining infrastructure to prevent long power outages once Negros Power takes over.
Regulatory Approvals
NEPC’s operation hinges on obtaining necessary regulatory approvals. The franchise bill granting NEPC the right to operate in Central Negros is pending before the Office of the President. The bill will automatically become law by the end of July if not signed or vetoed. Additionally, NEPC has applied for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Energy Regulation Commission, which will be granted once the franchise becomes law.
The Five-Year Development Plan
NEPC has a comprehensive five-year plan for continuous infrastructure upgrades. This includes advanced metering technology, and improved customer service to enhance the consumer experience.
Impact on the Community
Fair Billing Practices
NEPC’s amnesty program and subsequent improvements will lead to fairer billing practices. By reducing system loss and ensuring accurate billing, NEPC will create a more equitable system. This initiative will benefit both individual consumers and the overall power distribution network.
Improved Service Reliability
With planned infrastructure upgrades and ongoing maintenance, Negros Power aims to reduce power outages and improve service reliability, crucial for both residential consumers and businesses.
Community Engagement and Support
NEPC’s efforts to engage and support the community highlight its commitment to social responsibility. By offering amnesty and simplifying the application process, NEPC fosters inclusion and trust within the community, reducing illegal connections and building cooperation between the utility and its consumers.
Negros Power Corporation’s one-month amnesty for illegal connections is a significant step towards improving power distribution in Central Negros. By encouraging residents to legalize their connections, NEPC aims to reduce system loss, ensure fair billing, and enhance service reliability. With its comprehensive plans and community-focused initiatives, NEPC promises a brighter and more efficient future for Bacolod and Central Negros.
Read: Negros Power Franchise: Another Step Closer To A Brighter Future
