House Bill Number 9310 Aims To Change Central Negros’ Electrical Distribution
The Primelectric (Negros Power) – CENECO Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) that will provide improved electricity service in Bacolod City and Central Negros has already been approved through the plebiscite. However, the JVA that resulted in NEPC, or Negros Electric and Power Corporation, must be granted a franchise to operate.
In a crucial move that will change the way electricity reaches homes and establishments in Central Negros, House Bill Number 9310 has been introduced by three lawmakers in Congress.
Enforcement of Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC)
Authored by Negrense Representatives Joseph Stephen Paduano, Juliet Marie De Leon Ferrer, and Francisco Benitez, this bill seeks to grant the Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) a franchise that could transform electricity distribution in the cities of Bacolod, Silay, Talisay, and Bago, as well as in the Municipalities of Murcia and Don Salvador Benedicto.
NEPC’s Mission
Negros Power’s mission is to invest an initial capital of Php 2 Billion to renovate and streamline the electric power distribution system and make electricity more dependable and efficient for consumers, establishments, institutions, and other users within its franchise area.
These areas are currently served by Central Negros Electric Cooperative Inc. (CENECO), which is facing restrictions because of inadequate funding, no additional Capital Expenditures, and insufficient access to modern technology. Its franchise will expire in 2030.
The Primelectric (NEPC) – CENECO Joint Venture Agreement (JVA)
CENECO member-consumer-owners recently agreed to enter a joint venture with Primelectric Holdings Incorporated/NEPC, a sister company of MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) in Iloilo City, to get through the many challenges they’re experiencing regarding electricity services.
MORE Power’s extraordinary record is obvious in its fast reconstruction and modernization of Iloilo City’s distribution system. The company has minimized system losses, lowered power costs, and added over 30,000 new customers in a span of just 3 years. The accomplishments of MORE Power in Iloilo City have received commendation from local government officials and consumers. This success has given hope for Central Negros.
NEPC Stands Out
NEPC’s management team is what makes the company special and is a testament to the leadership behind MORE Power.
NEPC is a very stable company, thanks to the backing from the group controlling publicly listed companies such as Bloomberry Resorts Corporation (BLOOM), Manila Water Company, Inc. (MWC), and Apex Mining Company, Inc. (APX).
Optimism of the Three Lawmakers
In their proposed house bill officially submitted last September 25, the three lawmakers said that Congress has a strong reason to give the franchise because of the proven capabilities of Negros Electric and Power Corp. (NEPC) and its potential to transform the power distribution setting in Central Negros. Furthermore, this move could generate economic growth and improve people’s lives.
They also underscored that with NEPC’s knowledge and resources, Central Negros will be able to enjoy effective, trustworthy, and economical electrical distribution services beneficial to its residents and businesses. The lawmakers further stated that the support of Congress for the fast passage of this bill is seriously requested.
