Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) is asking the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to approve its certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) to legally operate the electricity distribution system in central Negros.
NEPC, a joint venture between Razon-owned Primelectric Holdings Inc. (PHI) and Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO), was established to enhance power distribution and customer service for more than 220,000 active accounts in the cities of Bacolod, Bago, Talisay, Silay and the municipalities of Murcia and Don Salvador Benedicto.
NEPC said in its filings it meets all the legal qualifications for a CPCN and has the technical and financial capabilities to operate the system. The company also prioritized hiring 219 qualified former CENECO employees to ensure continuity of operations.
NEPC said a situation could arise where CENECO no longer has sufficient employees, while NEPC has the manpower, technical expertise and financial resources but lacks a CPCN.
“NEPC is ready to immediately implement its plans for rehabilitating and modernizing the distribution system, reducing system losses, and improving electric service for consumers in its franchise area,” the company said. However, it requires a CPCN from the ERC to operate as a distribution utility.
NEPC requested the ERC to provisionally approve its application before any hearing to prevent disruptions in electric service during the transition from CENECO to NEPC.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved NEPC’s franchise in July. NEPC President Roel Castro emphasized the company’s commitment to improving electric service and fulfilling its promises to consumers.
“We are grateful for the support from our leaders and everyone involved in this initiative. Now that we have the law, it’s time to deliver on our promises to the consumers of Central Negros,” Castro said.
NEPC allocated an initial capital of P2 billion for a five-year rehabilitation and modernization plan to create a robust distribution system. Castro urged continued support and collaboration for this effort to improve the system and reduce unscheduled power outages.
