Bacolod City – Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) has significantly reduced its system loss rate through an intensified anti-pilferage campaign and technical upgrades – bringing the figure down from 11.84 percent in August 2024 to 8.03 percent by May 2025.
The dramatic drop moves the utility below to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) interim cap of 8.25 percent, signaling significant progress in improving energy efficiency and curbing losses due to electricity theft and system irregularities, a statement from Negros Power said.
Between November 2024 and June 25, 2025, the company uncovered 789 illegal connections and 1,156 unauthorized load-side connections, as a result of 1,704 enforcement operations, achieving 96 percent of its inspection targets.
“This is more than enforcement,” said Engr. Edwin Montemayor, System Loss Reduction Consultant. “It’s about ensuring every household enjoys fair, stable, and safe electricity.”
The campaign includes the deployment of 153 check meters and continuous monitoring across key barangays to detect anomalies swiftly. Legal action has also begun, with two criminal cases already filed against persistent offenders.
As part of its broader System Loss Reduction Program (SLRP), Negros Power has also replaced 13,308 outdated meters to modernize customer metering.
“Our strategy is clear: clean up the grid, modernize our systems, and uphold accountability,” according to Negros Power president Roel Castro.
“These numbers show real impact, and this is just the beginning,” Castro added.
He also called on the public to play a role in building a fairer energy system.
“Progress happens when the community works with us. Report anomalies. Be vigilant. Help us build a transparent, reliable power network for all.” (Gilbert Bayoran via tvds)