Negros Power Substation Upgrades

Negros Power Completes Critical Substation Upgrades: Strengthening Central Negros’ Power Grid for a Resilient Future [ Panaogao and Sum-ag substations ]

 Negros Power has finalized significant upgrades to its Panaogao and Sum-ag substations, reinforcing Central Negros’ power infrastructure against extreme weather and vegetation-related disruptions. The back-to-back maintenance operations on March 22–23 align with the utility’s five-year modernization program, designed to modernize aging systems and ensure reliable electricity for homes, businesses, and industries.

Negros Power Substation and Their Impact  

Panaogao Substation (Silay City)
On March 22, crews at the Panaogao Substation in Silay City worked from 6:00 AM to 3:30 PM, temporarily affecting 10,221 households and businesses. The team upgraded protection systems, installed new insulators, replaced disconnect switches and current transformers, and corrected electrical hotspots—critical steps to address vulnerabilities in aging infrastructure. These improvements aim to reduce the risks of unplanned outages during typhoons or heavy rains, ensuring the substation can withstand extreme conditions.

Sum-ag Substation
The following day, March 23, teams at the Sum-ag Substation followed suit, laboring from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Their work included deploying “tree wires” to mitigate vegetation interference and enhancing grid stability through similar upgrades. By targeting weak points in the system, Negros Power reinforced the substation’s resilience against environmental factors that often disrupt the power supply.

Negros Power Substation Upgrades | Why These Matter

The work addresses weaknesses in aging infrastructure, reducing risks of unplanned outages during typhoons or heavy rains. Engr. Oscar Duca, Negros Power’s Area Office Assistant Manager, emphasized: “These improvements aren’t just about fixing today’s issues—they’re about building a grid that can withstand tomorrow’s challenges”. By proactively modernizing substations, the utility aims to provide a stable power supply for Central Negros’ growing communities.

Negros Power Substation Upgrades | Part of a Broader Modernization Plan

Negros Power’s PHP2.5-billion five-year rehabilitation strategy prioritizes high-risk areas, including substations and transmission lines. In February 2025, crews replaced 18 poles and 235 insulators along the 69kV Bacolod-Silay Subtransmission Line, bolstering resilience against typhoons. The program, launched after the utility took over operations from Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO) in 2023, focuses on replacing outdated equipment, integrating innovative grid technologies, and expanding renewable energy integration.

Long-Term Goals
The initiative aims to transform Central Negros’ power landscape by:

1. Replacing outdated equipment inherited from CENECO, ensuring compatibility with modern demands.

2. Integrating smart grid technologies to optimize energy distribution and reduce waste.

3. Ensuring uninterrupted power supply for urban and rural communities, supporting economic growth and daily life.

Negros Power Substation Upgrades and the Leadership Commitment

Engr. Bailey Del Castillo, the utility’s Chief Operations Officer, highlighted the utility’s vision: “We’re not just upgrading equipment—we’re investing in a future where power outages are rare, and communities can thrive without interruption.” The team prioritizes preemptive upgrades to mitigate risks before calamities strike, ensuring the grid remains robust even during extreme weather.

Assistant Vice President of Network Development, Engr. Mervin Dalian added: “We’re prioritizing preemptive upgrades to mitigate risks before calamities strike.” This proactive approach underscores Negros Power’s commitment to reliability and sustainability.

Renewable Energy and Grid Challenges [ Negros Power Substation Upgrades ]

While Negros Island is a clean energy leader with 341 MW of solar and 154 MW of geothermal power, most electricity consumed locally comes from coal and diesel plants in Cebu and Iloilo. Negros Power’s modernization aligns with national goals to expand renewables, though challenges like land availability and stranded fossil fuel assets persist. The utility is exploring partnerships to diversify its energy mix, balancing reliability with sustainability.

What’s Next?

With substation upgrades complete, Negros Power will focus on:

1. Smart grid integration to optimize energy distribution and reduce waste.

2. Renewable energy partnerships to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

3. Proactive maintenance to minimize disruptions during future upgrades.

Final Thoughts
“Reliable electricity isn’t just a service—it’s the backbone of progress,” said Del Castillo. “We’re honored to be part of Central Negros’ journey toward a brighter, more sustainable future.”

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