BACOLOD City – Pro-consumer group Power Watch Negros (PWN) is calling for greater consumer solidarity to combat the ongoing challenges in the local power sector, including frequent outages and controversial billing practices.
PWN secretary general Wennie Sancho highlighted the hardships faced by consumers, from bill shocks and power interruptions to problematic charges stemming from questionable power supply agreements.
Sancho expressed the group’s anticipation for the Senatess approval of a legislative franchise allowing Negros Electric and Power Corp. (NEPC) to manage the operations currently held by the Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO). He voiced strong support for NEPC, noting its commitment to consumer empowerment and to a transition towards fair and democratic energy practices.
Among others, NEPC aims to negotiate beneficial power supply agreements that are attractive to both energy suppliers and consumers.
Sancho said, “With the goal of enhancing CENECO’s operations, NEPC’s vision for an efficient, reliable power supply that prioritizes consumer needs over profits is within reach.”
The corporation plans to involve consumers actively in its decision-making process by providing platforms for voicing concerns, recommendations, and alternative solutions. This initiative aims to meet consumers’ increasing demands for better service quality and innovative energy solutions by fundamentally reengineering company operations to focus on consumer needs.
Additionally, NEPC is set to emphasize consumer education, equipping individuals with the knowledge to unlock their social and economic potential.
According to Sancho, “Informed and empowered consumers are crucial to the efficiency and reliability of the electricity system.”/PN
