Bacolod mayor hails NEPC franchise approval; milestone for city energy landscape
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BACOLOD City, Negros — City mayor Albee Benitez said the approval of the Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) franchise marks a significant milestone for Bacolod, which promises a more reliable and affordable electricity supply for residents and businesses.
The power provider also promised to underscore a commitment to environmental sustainability through the utilization of renewable energy sources.
Benitez expresses optimism about the positive changes that NEPC is poised to bring to Bacolod City. “With the approval of the Joint Venture Agreement with Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO), the city anticipates the entry of NEPC, promising cheaper and more efficient power supply, and most importantly, a shift towards green energy,” he states.
NEPC’s objective is to implement eco-friendly practices and promote the use of renewable energy sources within the city. By embracing cleaner alternatives and reducing carbon emissions, NEPC aims to contribute to Bacolod’s sustainability goals, fostering a greener future for generations to come.
Benitez foresees a seamless transition of the franchise from CENECO to NEPC, citing strong support from residents, business owners, local government units, and various sectors, including Non-Governmental Organizations.
Bacolod City, a major economic hub, has grappled with frequent brownouts, high power rates, and subpar customer service. These issues hinder economic growth and investment attraction. Mayor Benitez believes that a reliable power supply will significantly contribute to the city’s economic development.
House Bill 9310, advocating for the grant of a franchise to NEPC as the power distributor in Bacolod City, Bago, Silay, Talisay, Murcia, and Don Salvador Benedicto, is currently under consideration by the House Committee on Legislative Franchises, chaired by Rep. Gus Tambunting.
The committee awaits document submissions from NEPC, CENECO, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and the National Electrification Administration (NEA). Once approved at the committee level, the bill will proceed to plenary deliberation.
Negros congressmen, led by Rep. Francisco Benitez, Rep. Juliet Marie Ferrer, Rep. Stephen Paduano, and Rep. Greg Gasataya, drafted House Bill 9310. Mayor Benitez hopes for congressional approval before the year concludes to initiate the rehabilitation of CENECO’s entire distribution system.
Primelectric Holdings Inc. President Roel Castro commits a P2.1 billion investment in capital expenditures for NEPC, focusing on establishing cutting-edge systems to enhance the consumer experience.
The rehabilitation and improvement of the system are deemed essential to eliminate inefficiencies. Following legislative franchise approval, NEPC will seek a Certificate of Public Safety Convenience and Necessity (CPSCN) from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) before assuming control of CENECO.
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