Enhancing Power Security and Reliability in Negros Island: A Collaborative Approach
The Negros Island Power Forum, held on March 20, 2024, at L’Fisher Hotel in Bacolod City, marked a significant step towards ensuring a robust and sustainable power supply for Negros Island. Organized by the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI), the forum convened critical stakeholders from the energy sector, government officials, and business community representatives. This collaborative platform served as a crucial venue to address critical issues concerning power distribution and chart a course for a more secure and reliable energy future for the island.
Underscoring the Importance of Reliable Power
The forum’s opening remarks by Bacolod City Councilor Thaddy Sayson, representing Mayor Albee Benitez, highlighted the critical role of reliable power distribution in facilitating economic growth and social progress. Councilor Sayson’s anecdotes regarding appliance damage due to power fluctuations underscored the tangible impact of power instability on residents’ daily lives and livelihoods. He emphasized the direct link between a dependable power supply and the city’s overall prosperity, underscoring the urgency of finding solutions.
Collaborative Efforts for a Sustainable Energy Future
Frank Carbon, Co-Chair of the PCCI Energy, Power, and Water Committee and Vice President of MBCCI, emphasized the importance of collaboration within the energy sector. Citing the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), Mr. Carbon underscored the need for stakeholders to work together toward achieving a common goal. His proposal to establish a coordinating council for power security is a concrete step towards fostering regular dialogue among industry players. This council could develop a strategic roadmap that addresses the island’s specific energy needs and facilitates long-term planning.
Addressing Concerns and Seeking Solutions
Bacolod City Councilor Kalaw Puentevella echoed concerns regarding the impact of power unreliability on public safety and economic development. He highlighted anxieties surrounding electricity costs and the detrimental effects of power interruptions on local businesses. These concerns underscore the need for a comprehensive solution that addresses both the technical and economic aspects of power distribution.
Technical Considerations and Future Plans
Roel Castro, President and CEO of Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) or Negros Power, provided valuable insights into the technical complexities of power distribution. By referencing past blackouts that affected Negros and Panay, Mr. Castro emphasized the critical need for a stable, continuous, and cost-effective power supply. He outlined Negros Power’s plans for improving the current system, focusing on areas such as regulation, standardization, and modernization. These initiatives are crucial for meeting the region’s growing energy demands and ensuring a resilient power grid.
Mr. Castro also highlighted upcoming projects like the CNP Cebu-Negros-Panay backdoor initiative, which was designed to enhance power supply and distribution efficiency. Furthermore, his discussion on Load Profile management highlighted the importance of adapting energy sources to seasonal fluctuations and increasing demands. This proactive approach is essential for optimizing power generation and ensuring a stable grid.
The Path Forward: Collaboration and Progress
The Negros Island Power Forum served as a platform for stakeholders to outline a shared vision for a secure and reliable energy future on the island. Moving forward, the focus will be on strengthening regulations, implementing improved monitoring systems, and cracking down on illegal connections. These collective efforts will significantly minimize power outages and enhance overall grid stability.
The collaborative spirit evident at the forum represents a promising step towards a more sustainable energy future for Negros Island. By working together, stakeholders can ensure the development of a robust and reliable power supply that fuels economic growth, enhances public safety and improves the quality of life for all residents.
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