Negros Power Explains Manual Load Dropping in Visayas Area
Power interruptions are always inconvenient, especially during busy afternoons and evenings. This is when families are making dinner, students are finishing homework, and small businesses are still serving customers.
Negros Power is now carrying out Manual Load Dropping (MLD) in its service area following a directive from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). This is happening because the Visayas Grid is experiencing limited power generation, especially in the Cebu, Negros, and Panay subgrids.
The key thing for consumers to know is that Manual Load Dropping is not Negros Power’s decision. NGCP ordered this action to keep the transmission system stable and prevent bigger power problems in the Visayas.
What Is Manual Load Dropping?
Manual Load Dropping is used when there is not enough electricity supply. NGCP asks distribution utilities to temporarily lower power demand in certain areas to keep the grid stable.
This may sound technical, but the idea is simple. If there is not enough power to meet demand, the grid can become unstable. Without action, this could lead to bigger outages affecting more homes, businesses, and communities.
To prevent this, NGCP tells affected distribution utilities to schedule or rotate power interruptions. These help balance the available supply with the actual demand.
Why Is Negros Power Implementing MLD?
Negros Power is doing Manual Load Dropping because NGCP has put several Visayas utilities on alert due to limited power generation. The alert covers the possibility of MLD from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, when many people are home and using more electricity.
NGCP later ordered MLD to be carried out in affected areas, including Negros Power’s service area.
Engr. Leomel Tambanillo, Assistant Vice President for Planning and Business Operations and Sitio Electrification Program at Negros Power, explained that the company must follow NGCP’s instructions because NGCP runs the country’s transmission network.
He also assured consumers that Negros Power is working closely with NGCP and will keep the public updated.
Negros Power Clarifies That MLD Is Directed By NGCP
It’s important for consumers to remember that Negros Power does not start these power interruptions on its own. The company follows NGCP’s instructions because NGCP manages the transmission grid and is responsible for its stability.
Tambanillo said that NGCP is directing the current Manual Load Dropping because of limited generation capacity in the Cebu, Negros, and Panay subgrids. He stressed that this is a grid management step to protect the transmission system.
This clarification is important because many people think all power interruptions come from their local utility. In this case, the issue starts with power generation and transmission.
Negros Power is the distribution utility, so it delivers electricity to customers in its area. However, it relies on the available supply and instructions from the grid operator.
Why The Grid Needs Protection During Limited Supply
The power grid needs to stay balanced at all times. Supply and demand for electricity must match closely. If demand is higher than supply, the grid can become unstable.
Controlled power interruptions may be inconvenient, but they help prevent bigger problems. Without Manual Load Dropping, a shortage could cause wider outages affecting more people in the Visayas.
That’s why NGCP uses MLD as a protective step. It helps prevent bigger outages and gives grid operators time to manage the limited power supply.
What Consumers Can Do During MLD
While consumers can’t control the grid, they can help lower demand, especially during peak hours. Simple habits can make a difference when many people do them together.
Turn off lights and appliances you’re not using. Unplug chargers, fans, TVs, and other devices when they aren’t needed. Try to use heavy appliances like washing machines, irons, and ovens outside of peak hours if you can.
Businesses can also help by saving power in non-essential areas during alert periods. Even small changes can lower demand and support the local power system.
Stay Updated Through Official Advisories
Negros Power encourages consumers to check official advisories for updates on the power situation. Because Manual Load Dropping depends on grid conditions, schedules may change based on supply, demand, and NGCP instructions.
Consumers should rely on official Negros Power announcements to avoid confusion. Checking verified updates helps households and businesses prepare, especially during the 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM alert period.
Negros Power Continues Coordination With NGCP
Negros Power says it is committed to keeping the public informed as the situation changes. The company is working with NGCP to stabilize the power system and restore normal operations as soon as possible.
Power interruptions can disrupt daily life, but knowing why Manual Load Dropping happens helps people see the bigger picture. This step is meant to protect the grid, prevent wider outages, and keep the power system stable across the Visayas.
For now, consumers should conserve electricity, monitor official updates, and be prepared for potential interruptions as the Visayas Grid experiences limited power generation.