Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) has significantly reduced its system loss rate through an intensified anti-pilferage campaign and sweeping technical upgrades, bringing the figure down from 11.84 percent in August 2024 to just 8.03 percent by May 2025.
This dramatic drop moves the utility below 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. It’s about ensuring every household enjoys fair, stable, and safe electricity,” Engr. Edwin Montemayor, system loss reduction consultant, said.
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As part of its broader System Loss Reduction Program, Negros Power has also replaced 13,308 outdated meters to modernize customer metering.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,” Negros Power president Roel Castro said. “These numbers show real impact – and this is just the beginning”.
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,” he added.
Negros Power assured consumers that its anti-pilferage campaign, infrastructure upgrades, and public engagement initiatives will continue, restoring integrity, trust, and efficiency across central Negros. ||
