Privatization of Electric Power Distribution: Consumers Voice Support

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Privatization of Electric Power Distribution: Consumers Voice Support

Privatization of Electric Power Distribution

CENECO Consumers Voice Support for Privatization of Electric Power Distribution

Introduction

Homeowners and consumers in Central Negros, represented by community associations in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental, have officially declared their support for the privatization of electric power distribution in the region. They believe that granting a Congressional franchise to Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) will lead to improved services.

Current Situation [ Privatization of Electric Power Distribution ]

The push for privatizing electric power distribution in Central Negros is rapidly gaining traction, reflecting a growing consensus among stakeholders for change. Spearheaded by regional representatives, a House bill advocating for privatization is currently making its way through the legislative process, signaling a proactive approach to improving the region’s energy landscape. This initiative underscores the need to overhaul the existing system, particularly in response to widespread dissatisfaction with Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO), which has long been under fire for its subpar service quality and reliability issues.

Privatization of Electric Power Distribution: Consumers Voice Support

Consumer Discontent [ Privatization of Electric Power Distribution ]

In a joint statement, community leaders expressed their dissatisfaction with CENECO’s performance, citing frequent blackouts, power outages, and brownouts that have disrupted their daily lives. They emphasized that despite paying their bills regularly, they have been deprived of reliable power supply and efficient services for several decades.

Privatization of Electric Power Distribution: Consumers Voice Support

Specific Concerns [ Privatization of Electric Power Distribution ]

  • High Systems Loss: Julie Alob, Chairperson of Banago Yuhom Takers Association, highlighted the burden of high systems loss incurred by CENECO, which is passed on to consumers through electricity rate charges.
  • Impact on Daily Life: Nona Dela Cruz, Chairperson of Tinagong Paraiso Empowered Women’s Organization, emphasized the critical role of electricity in daily life, affecting everything from meal preparation to personal hygiene and safety.
  • Customer Service: Jun Mart Tan, Chairperson of Mahimulaton Home Owners Association, expressed frustration with CENECO’s poor customer service, which has led to inconvenience and frustration among consumers.

Privatization of Electric Power Distribution: Consumers Voice Support

Support for Change [ Privatization of Electric Power Distribution ]

Community leaders are deeply convinced that the infrastructure of CENECO is in dire need of immediate rehabilitation. Years of neglect and inefficiency have taken a toll on the system, leading to widespread frustration and inconvenience among consumers. Privatization, in their view, is not just a solution but a necessity. They argue that only a private distribution utility, backed by the requisite financial, technical, and managerial expertise, can effectively address the longstanding issues plaguing CENECO.

The infusion of private capital and expertise is seen as crucial in modernizing the infrastructure, improving service quality, and ensuring a reliable power supply for the region. Additionally, they believe that privatization will introduce much-needed competition into the sector, incentivizing efficiency and innovation, and ultimately benefiting consumers in the long run.

Privatization of Electric Power Distribution: Consumers Voice Support

Call for Action

In their joint statement submitted to the Senate, the homeowners-consumers emphatically voiced their support for NEPC’s Congressional franchise application, viewing it as a crucial step towards addressing the persistent power outages and disruptions that have plagued the region for far too long. They expressed hope that granting NEPC the franchise would usher in a new era of reliability and efficiency in electric power distribution, significantly improving the quality of life for residents.

Moreover, they highlighted the overwhelming approval of the Joint Venture of CENECO and NEPC in a plebiscite held last year, underscoring the widespread desire for change and the community’s belief in the potential of NEPC to deliver on its promises. The homeowners-consumers remain optimistic that with the support of the Senate, NEPC will be able to fulfill its commitment to providing a stable and dependable power supply to Central Negros.

Future Prospects [ Privatization of Electric Power Distribution ]

If NEPC obtains the Congressional franchise, Primelectric Holdings Incorporated, NEPC’s mother company, plans to purchase all-electric distribution assets of CENECO. This acquisition is proposed to be made through a combination of cash (70%) and shares (30%).

Privatization of Electric Power Distribution: Consumers Voice Support

Conclusion

The homeowners-consumers in Central Negros are advocating for change in the electric power distribution sector, believing that privatization is the key to improving services and addressing the long-standing issues they have faced with CENECO. Their support for NEPC’s Congressional franchise application reflects their desire for a better and more reliable electricity service in their communities.

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