By CESAR JOLITO III
A consumer advocacy group has thrown its support behind the proposed partnership between Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) and the Northern Negros Electric Cooperative (Noneco), saying the joint venture could significantly improve power services in Northern Negros amid growing demand and persistent complaints from consumers.
Alliance of Concerned Consumers in Electricity and Social Services (ACCESS) President Wennie Sancho said the proposed joint venture agreement (JVA) is expected to address long-standing issues of inefficient service and inadequate power supply in the area.
Sancho noted that the planned collaboration draws from the experience of Negros Power’s partnership with the Central Negros Electric Cooperative (Ceneco), which he said demonstrated how private sector expertise can help improve distribution operations and service delivery.
According to ACCESS, the key benefits of the proposed Negros Power – Noneco partnership include infrastructure upgrades, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced reliability of electricity supply.
Sancho said Negros Power’s technical capability and experience could help modernize Noneco’s facilities, reduce power interruptions, and improve overall service quality.
“Consumers in Northern Negros can expect more responsive and accountable services, as the partnership may introduce innovative solutions and best practices in the energy sector,” Sancho said in a press statement on Sunday, January 11.
In support of the proposal, ACCESS, together with Power Watch Negros, is assisting consumers in Northern Negros in strengthening the Alliance of Consumers in Northern Negros (ACNN).
Sancho said a stronger ACNN would serve as a unified voice to ensure that consumer interests are protected and represented in decisions related to the partnership.
ACCESS said the proposed collaboration has the potential to establish a more robust and consumer-focused power service framework in Northern Negros, aligned with the group’s advocacy for affordable, efficient and reliable electricity for households and businesses in the region./CJ, WDJ