Negros Power to Grant Amnesty for Illegal Connections – Castro

Legalities are being expedited and while still missing the President’s signature, Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) is more than ready for Day 1 of operations in Bacolod City and Central Negros. In a recent event, Negros Power President and CEO Roel Z. Castro told the press about their preparations. One big announcement is the amnesty for illegal connections. Read more about it and how it will benefit every member-consumer.

• Read: Negros Power Business Operations Center in Bacolod City

• Related: Negros Power is Ready for 24/7 Service

Mechanics to Grant Amnesty for Illegal Connections

NEPC will grant amnesty to more than 6,000 consumers in Central Negros with illegal connections, provided they meet the deadline. This was disclosed by NEPC President and CEO Roel Z. Castro to the press.

He clarified that they are still waiting to take over the distribution services of CENECO and when they do, they will give a one-month amnesty period. During this time, all those with illegal power connections can come forward and apply for a new account with Negros Power.

Castro assured that there will be no back billings and penalties for those who will come forward during the amnesty period. However, he warns that NEPC will go after illegal connections after the amnesty period.

The aim here is to make electricity accessible to everyone and to lower the system loss charges for the rest of the consumers.

NEPC has 30,000 new meters available for additional consumers, Castro revealed.

Soon, Negros Power will take over CENECO and will provide service to Bacolod City and Central Negros, which will cover the Cities of Silay, Bago, and Talisay, and the municipalities of Murcia and Don Salvador Benedicto.

Big Advantage of Amnesty and Giving Legal Connections

A big chunk of what consumers pay for in their monthly electricity consumption is the “system loss charges“. System loss is the energy consumption that cannot be accounted for so CENECO just charges the entire amount and divides it among its legal consumers. Much of the system loss is electricity pilferage because of illegal connections or wire tappers.

One major cause of illegal connections is not really because people want to “steal” electricity. CENECO’S connection requirements are quite tedious, and if not complied with, individuals or even businesses cannot be granted a connection.

When the majority of illegal tappers can get legal connections, they will have their meter and monthly bill and can pay accordingly. That will mean less system loss and a reduced electric bill for everyone.