Negros Power Averts Potential Crisis with Help from Primelectric and MORE Power
Negros Power has improved electricity reliability in Central Negros by energizing a replacement transformer at the Asdes Gonzaga Substation in only 12 days. This fast response was made possible with help from Primelectric Holdings Inc. and MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power).
The new Hitachi Energy transformer was energized at 5:17 p.m. on October 15, 2026. This restored the substation’s capacity and protected electricity service for about 20,000 consumers.
The quick replacement was especially important because Bacolod City and nearby communities were celebrating the MassKara Festival. During this time, households, businesses, hotels, restaurants, and tourism spots depend on a steady electricity supply.
Aging Transformer Failure Prompted Emergency Response
The problem began on October 3, 2026, when the old transformer at the Asdes Gonzaga Substation tripped and then failed.
The original 37.5 MVA unit was made in 2006 and installed in 2007. Negros Power had been checking its condition and performing maintenance, such as oil degassing, to keep it running.
Earlier Dissolved Gas Analysis results showed rising gas levels in the transformer oil, which pointed to possible internal issues. These warning signs led the company to get ready for a possible equipment failure.
After the incident, Negros Power quickly moved the loads from the affected substation to the Mt. View and Alijis substations. This helped keep electricity service running while they arranged for replacement equipment.
MORE Power and Primelectric Provide Critical Assistance
MORE Power provided the replacement unit. The company had bought two transformers for its planned expansion at the Megaworld TR2 and General Hughes substations.
Seeing the urgent need, MORE Power gave one of its new units to Negros Power, putting the immediate need ahead of its own expansion plans.
The replacement transformer was made by Hitachi Energy in Bac Ninh, Vietnam. It has a rated capacity of 30/36 MVA and a voltage rating of 69/13.8 kV.
Negros Power President and CEO Roel Z. Castro stressed the importance of electricity distribution companies working together during urgent challenges.
He said that providing the equipment was the right choice because it met an urgent need and helped reduce the possible impact on consumers.
MORE Power’s help and teamwork within the Primelectric group showed that working together can solve major infrastructure problems more efficiently.
Replacement Completed in Just 12 Days
From the equipment failure on October 3 to successful energization on October 15, Negros Power and its partners completed the emergency replacement process in just 12 days.
This achievement restored operations at the Asdes Gonzaga Substation and strengthened the electricity network in Central Negros.
The timing was important because the MassKara Festival brought more activity to Bacolod City. Reliable electricity was essential for businesses, tourism, residents, and festival events.
By quickly getting and installing the replacement unit, Negros Power and its partners lowered the risk of long service disruptions for about 20,000 consumers.
Strengthening Electricity Reliability in Central Negros
The successful replacement shows how important it is to monitor equipment, do preventive maintenance, plan for emergencies, and work together with other power companies.
Regular maintenance helps spot possible equipment problems. Access to replacement equipment and emergency support can make a big difference when unexpected failures happen.
For Negros Power, getting the new transformer running is another key step toward giving customers safe, reliable, and strong electricity service.
The quick support from Primelectric Holdings Inc. and MORE Power also shows that working together can protect consumers and keep critical power systems running, especially during major community events and periods of high electricity use.
Now that the substation’s capacity is back, Negros Power is continuing to improve the distribution system and support the growing needs of Bacolod City and nearby communities.