By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY – A local power consumer group official stated that the Ener by Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) granting of a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) to Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) would benefit the Negros Island Region’s power sector, consumers, and economy by driving growth, innovation, and sustainability.
Wennie Sancho, president of the Alliance of Concerned Consumers in Electricity and Social Services (ACCESS), said the CPCN approval for Negros Power marks a shift from CENECO to Negros Power, promising modernization and upgrades of infrastructure and electrical equipment.
He explained that this aligns with the company’s five-year development plan, aiming to improve customer service, enhance power quality, reduce outages, and increase renewable energy use to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
“This transformation will improve public health and safety, support industrial and commercial growth, attract investment, and create job opportunities,” Sancho said.
Sancho noted that the CPCN approval would enhance Negros Power’s reputation and customer trust.
However, he tempered expectations, stating, “Our positive outlook on the CPCN for Negros Power should be accompanied by patience, as transformation cannot be achieved overnight.”
He pointed out that an undertaking as complex as Negros Power’s five-year development plan requires patience and perseverance.
“As the saying goes, ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day,’” Sancho added.
He explained that the changes would bring gradual progress, breaking down long-term goals into achievable milestones and focusing on steady advancement.
“Strategic planning will prioritize and sequence projects, creating a solid foundation for future growth,” he said.
Sancho also emphasized the importance of managing consumer expectations, acknowledging that transformative change takes time.
“The shift from CENECO to Negros Power is a Herculean task, making strategic planning and execution essential,” he said, stressing that collaboration and adaptability are vital.
Sancho called on consumers to cooperate fully with Negros Power, saying, “Together, we can successfully navigate its five-year development plan to create a sustainable energy future for all Negrenses, ensuring excellence in service that goes beyond electricity.”
