A bill, which seeks to transform the power distribution landscape in central Negros through the Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC), was filed in Congress.
House Bill 9310, or “An act granting NEPC a franchise to establish, operate and maintain a power distribution system and ensuring continuous and uninterrupted supply,” will revolutionize power distribution services in Negros Occidental’s cities of Silay, Talisay and Bago, as well as the municipalities of Murcia and Don Salvador Benedicto, and capital Bacolod City.
The bill was sponsored by Negrense Representatives Joseph Stephen Paduano, Juliet Marie de Leon-Ferrer and Francisco Benitez.
“Considering the proven capabilities of NEPC and its potential to revolutionize the power distribution landscape in central Negros, the Congress has a compelling reason to grant the franchise,” the lawmakers said.
They said the move could catalyze economic growth and improve the quality of life of Negrense consumers.
“With NEPC’s expertise and resources, central Negros may soon enjoy reliable, efficient and cost-effective electrical distribution services that will benefit its residents and businesses,” the lawmakers said.
“The support of the members of Congress for the prompt and timely passage of this measure is earnestly sought,” they added.
NEPC is the sister company of MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) in Iloilo City.
NEPC will infuse an initial P2 billion capital to rehabilitate and modernize power distribution services, making it reliable and efficient for consumers within its franchise areas.
The distribution is currently managed by the Central Negros Electric Cooperative Inc. (Ceneco).
Ceneco, with its franchise expiring in 2030, now faces constraints due to its reliance on limited funds, not having additional capital expenditures, and lack of access to modern technology.
Recently, Ceneco member-consumer-owners agreed to enter into a joint venture agreement with Primelectric Holdings Incorporated/NEPC to pave the way for more efficient power distribution.
NEPC will mirror MORE Power’s accomplishments and will benefit from the substantial financial resources of the same group that controls several publicly-listed companies, including Bloomberry Resorts Corporation (BLOOM), Manila Water Company, Inc. (MWC), and Apex Mining Company, Inc. (APX).
Within three years of taking over the neglected facilities of the former distribution utility company, MORE Power reduced power system losses and lowered costs, creating an impressive performance demonstrated by its ability to rehabilitate and modernize the distribution system in Iloilo City in a short period of time.
Local government officials and consumers in Iloilo City and adjacent areas have endorsed and praised MORE Power’s achievements./WDJ