Climate change and energy demand are two of the critical concerns not just in the province of Negros Occidental but the entire world. Thankfully, many sectors are moving and contributing to alleviating the problem, such as SecuRE Negros under Gov. Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson. Last March 20, the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) organized the “Negros Electric Power Forum” at L’Fisher Hotel. The forum aimed to address critical issues concerning power distribution in Negros Island, especially now that the Negros Power franchise is up for Senate approval. Read more.
About the Negros Electric Power Forum
The gathering convened key industry stakeholders alongside government officials to deliberate vital topics to ensure a robust and sustainable power supply to fuel the growth and progression of the island.
During the forum, Bacolod City Councilor Thaddy Sayson, who attended on behalf of Mayor Albee Benitez, articulated the significance of reliable electricity distribution. He said stable power is directly linked to the city’s advancement and prosperity. Moreover, he recounted personal experiences of appliance damage due to power fluctuations.
Meanwhile, Frank Carbon, Co-Chair of PCCI Energy, Power, and Water Committee, and Vice President of MBCCI, shared insightful observations regarding the power industry. Highlighting the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA law), Carbon stressed the need for industry players to collaborate. He proposed the establishment of a coordinating council for power security. The council will then hold regular meetings among industry players and develop a strategic roadmap for the future.
Bacolod City Councilor Kalaw Puentevella also echoed concerns about power reliability, adding that reliable electricity distribution has profound implications on public safety and the city’s evolution into a “Supercity.” He highlighted worries about electricity costs and emphasized the urgency of resolving power interruptions to avert further economic setbacks for local businesses.
A Reassurance
Roel Castro, President and CEO of Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) or Negros Power, tackled the technical difficulties of power distribution, referencing past significant blackouts impacting the Negros Island and Panay.
Furthermore, he underscored the necessity of stable, continuous, and cost-effective power distribution, outlining plans for Negros Power that are focused on regulation, standardization, and modernization. Castro emphasized the importance of Load Profile management, adapting energy sources to seasonal fluctuations and increasing demands. He added that these are needed to meet the escalating power demands in the region.
Looking ahead, the industry’s focus lies on strengthening regulations, improving monitoring systems, and cracking down on illegal connections to enhance overall power security and reliability in Bacolod City and Central Negros. Castro also discussed upcoming projects like the CNP Cebu-Negros-Panay backdoor initiative to enhance power supply and distribution efficiency.
The collaborative efforts and peaceful discussion that transpired during the Negros Electric Power Forum symbolize a promising step towards a more sustainable energy future for the consumers.