Negros Power Enhances Infrastructure With Maintenance On Bacolod-Silay Sub-Transmission Line

In a continued effort to provide reliable electricity to Central Negros, Negros Power has undertaken another proactive maintenance initiative on the Bacolod-Silay 69kV sub-transmission line. This critical maintenance work is part of the company’s broader goal of minimizing unscheduled outages and ensuring stable power distribution to thousands of households and businesses in Bacolod City, Silay City, and surrounding areas.

The Significance of the Bacolod-Silay Sub-Transmission Line

The Bacolod-Silay 69kV sub-transmission line serves as a vital link in the Central Negros’ power distribution network. It transmits electricity from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) substation in Bacolod to the Panaogao, Talisay, and Lopez substations managed by Negros Power. This 30-kilometer line ensures continuous electricity flow to a significant portion of Central Negros.

However, the line’s aging infrastructure and challenging location, which traverses vast sugarcane plantations, make it vulnerable to damage from inclement weather and other external factors. Maintenance in these areas is especially difficult due to limited accessibility.

Addressing Aging Infrastructure with Proactive Maintenance

As part of its ongoing efforts to modernize its network, Negros Power recently completed maintenance work on Segment P of the sub-transmission line. This segment, spanning approximately 4.9 kilometers and encompassing 43 structures, underwent essential upgrades, including the replacement of an estimated 130 suspension insulators. These components, critical to maintaining the line’s integrity, had shown significant wear due to the line’s 40-year-old infrastructure.

According to Engr. Mervin Dalian, Head of the Network Development and Operations Group at Negros Power, the aging accessories of the line can no longer adequately meet modern electricity demands. “The accessories are almost worn out and substandard. It’s very challenging, and we need to implement solutions as soon as possible,” he explained.

Ensuring Timely Completion with Robust Deployment

To ensure efficient and timely execution, at least 15 teams were deployed for the maintenance work. The initiative also included repairs at the Panaogao and Lopez substations, further bolstering the stability of the entire network. Negros Power’s commitment to completing these upgrades showcases its proactive approach to addressing potential vulnerabilities before they lead to unscheduled power interruptions.

A Comprehensive Plan for a Reliable Power Network

The current maintenance work on Segment P is part of a larger initiative to repair and upgrade all seven segments of the Bacolod-Silay sub-transmission line. Having already completed repairs on the first segment, covering six kilometers, Negros Power aims to complete the entire 30-kilometer line by February 2025. This phased approach allows the company to systematically address the line’s aging infrastructure while minimizing disruptions to its consumers.

Commitment to Consumer Convenience

Negros Power recognizes that maintenance activities may cause temporary inconveniences, such as planned power outages. However, these efforts are necessary to prevent larger, more disruptive outages in the future. “We understand that power outages can be disruptive, and we apologize for any inconvenience this maintenance may cause. But we need to do this to make our lines robust and reliable,” Engr. Dalian emphasized.

Important Insights for Consumers

• Ongoing Maintenance Efforts:
Negros Power is continuously improving its infrastructure to prevent unscheduled outages and maintain reliable power distribution. These upgrades are essential for long-term service stability.

• Addressing Aging Infrastructure:
The Bacolod-Silay sub-transmission line, which is over 40 years old, is undergoing necessary upgrades to ensure it can handle modern electricity demands.

• Systematic Upgrades:
The maintenance work is being carried out in phases to ensure minimal disruption to consumers while effectively addressing issues across the full 30-kilometer span of the line.

• Short-Term Inconvenience for Long-Term Benefit:
While some temporary power interruptions may occur, these maintenance activities are a crucial investment in a more reliable and resilient power grid for the future.

Looking Ahead

Negros Power’s efforts to rehabilitate and upgrade its sub-transmission line reflect its dedication to providing reliable electricity to its customers. By addressing vulnerabilities and investing in infrastructure improvements, the company is taking significant steps to enhance the overall quality and stability of its service.

Consumers can rest assured that these proactive measures are part of a long-term strategy to deliver consistent and reliable electricity, ensuring a brighter and more connected future for Central Negros.