NEPC to Offer Amnesty to Legalize Power Connections for Over 6,000 Households

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NEPC to Offer Amnesty to Legalize Power Connections for Over 6,000 Households

Roel Castro, Preseident and CEO, NEPC

NEPC Announces Amnesty for Over 6,000 Households with Illegal Electric Connections

In a significant move towards modernizing and legalizing power distribution in Central Negros, the Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) has announced an amnesty for more than 6,000 households and individuals currently using illegal electric connections. This landmark decision was unveiled by NEPC President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Roel Castro, during the recently held NEPC Power 101 and Rate Setting Seminar for the media in Bacolod City.

NEPC to Offer Amnesty to Legalize Power Connections for Over 6,000 Households

Amnesty Initiative: A Path to Legitimacy

During the seminar, Mr. Castro elaborated on the details of the amnesty program. He stated that once NEPC officially takes over the distribution services previously managed by Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO), a one-month amnesty period will be instituted. This period will allow those with unauthorized power connections to come forward and legalize their connections without facing any retroactive billing or penalties.

“The drive is to make them legal and regular,” emphasized Castro. He clarified that the initiative aims to integrate these households into the legitimate power distribution network, ensuring fairness and accountability. However, Castro also issued a stern warning: those who fail to take advantage of the amnesty within the allotted time will face strict legal actions from NEPC.

Strategic Readiness and Legislative Developments

NEPC is on the brink of a major operational shift, ready to take over the power distribution services in the cities of Bacolod, Bago, Silay, and Talisay, as well as the towns of Don Salvador Benedicto and Murcia, by August 1. This transition hinges on securing the necessary franchise, a pending bill before the Office of the President.

Mr. Castro expressed optimism about the bill’s prospects, noting that if the President does not sign it, the bill will automatically lapse into law by the last week of July. In preparation, NEPC has applied for a Public Convenience and Necessity Certificate from the Energy Regulation Commission. This certificate is crucial for NEPC’s operations and will be granted once the franchise becomes law.

Commitment to Continuous Power Supply

One of NEPC’s primary commitments is to eradicate prolonged scheduled power outages that have plagued the region. Over the past month, NEPC has proactively engaged in joint rehabilitation efforts on CENECO’s distribution lines. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure a seamless transition and uninterrupted power supply.

Comprehensive Development Plan

Looking ahead, NEPC has devised an ambitious five-year development plan aimed at revolutionizing power distribution services in Central Negros. This plan includes substantial investments in modern infrastructure and cutting-edge technology. The goal is to enhance the reliability and efficiency of power delivery, meeting the growing demands of both existing and new consumers.

The Amnesty Program: A Closer Look

The amnesty program represents a pivotal component of NEPC’s strategy to foster an inclusive and equitable power distribution network. By offering this one-month window, NEPC aims to encourage those with illegal connections to transition to legal status without fear of penalties. This initiative promotes regulatory compliance and contributes to the overall stability and sustainability of the power grid.

NEPC has already prepared 30,000 new meters to accommodate additional power consumers. This readiness underscores the company’s commitment to providing reliable service and efficiently integrating new users into the legal framework.

 

The Road Ahead: Ensuring Reliable Service

Mr. Castro highlighted NEPC’s dedication to ensuring the transition will not disrupt the power supply. He assured that with NEPC’s takeover, there will be no long-scheduled power outages, a promise that brings much-needed relief to the affected regions.

Conclusion: A New Era in Power Distribution

The NEPC’s proactive measures to offer amnesty and its comprehensive development plan mark a significant step towards modernizing the electrical infrastructure in Central Negros. By legalizing power connections, NEPC aims to integrate all households into the legitimate power distribution network, promoting a culture of fairness and accountability.

The impending franchise approval and ongoing preparations signal the dawn of a new era in power distribution. NEPC’s initiatives promise to improve service reliability and foster a more inclusive and sustainable power distribution system.

NEPC to Offer Amnesty to Legalize Power Connections for Over 6,000 Households

Final Remarks: Embracing Change

As Mr. Roel Castro aptly stated, NEPC’s goal is not merely to take over the distribution services but to enhance them significantly. The commitment to making legal and regular connections the standard for all households in Central Negros underscores NEPC’s dedication to service excellence and community well-being.

The media, stakeholders, and the public will closely observe NEPC’s progress as it embarks on this transformative journey, marking a new chapter in the region’s power distribution history.

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