In a major boost to power reliability in Central Negros, Negros Power has wrapped up a 30-kilometer upgrade of the Bacolod–Silay 69 kilovolt (kV) sub-transmission line. The completed work forms part of the utility’s broader effort to modernize its network and ensure steadier electricity flow to key areas in the region.
The upgraded line now links Negros Power’s substations to the national grid, strengthening the connection that supports power delivery to thousands of homes and businesses across the area. The improved link is expected to enhance service reliability and ensure smoother energy transmission from the main grid.
(Also read: Negros Power Pushes Upgrade Drive)
Key improvements made
Crews tackled 29.87 circuit kilometers of line work, reinforcing seven major sections and overhauling 266 structures in the process. The effort combined detailed inspections with strategic replacements and upgrades, aiming to fortify the system’s durability and improve long-term performance.
The distribution utility tackled a chronic source of power disruptions by swapping out brittle, failure-prone porcelain insulators with high-performance polymer types.
According to Negros Power President Roel Castro, the worn-out insulators had been behind two to three unexpected outages every week. Since the upgrade wrapped up in December 2024, the company has recorded zero failures—a clear sign of progress.
One of the toughest hurdles faced during the upgrade was reaching remote pole sites. Over a third of the 277 structures stood in off-road locations. Crews had to navigate through muddy paths and dense sugarcane fields, relying solely on manual access to carry out inspections and repairs.
(Also read: Sustaining Samar’s Fuel Supply Amid Bridge Constraints)
Commitment to service
Castro credited the unwavering commitment of Negros Power’s engineers and line teams for seeing the project through to completion. Despite the tough conditions on the ground, every task was finished—a testament to the team’s grit and determination.
“This is not just an upgrade,” Castro noted. “This is a clear message to every consumer that Negros Power is serious about system reliability, safety, and long-term progress.”
Frank Carbon, former president of the Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and current co-chair of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Energy and Power Committee for the Visayas, expressed strong support for the initiative. He emphasized that reliable and upgraded power infrastructure is key to driving economic growth.
“The direction Negros Power is taking is exactly what Bacolod and the rest of Central Negros need,” he stated.
Sources:
https://visayandailystar.com/upgrade-of-bacolod-silay-69kv-line-completed
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/negros-power-completes-rehabilitation-of-bacolod-silay-69kv-line
https://dailyguardian.com.ph/negros-power-completes-bacolod-silay-69kv-line-upgrade