Negros Occ guv keeps an open mind on Ceneco-MORE venture

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said that he maintains an open mind on the proposed Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) between Central Negros Electric Cooperative (Ceneco) and MORE Power, Iloilo City’s sole power distributor.

Lacson said that what everyone is looking for is a solution to high power rates and frequent power outages.

“So let’s see. I understand that when MORE take over in Iloilo the rates went down and that is what we are looking for, a steady source of power and affordable rates,” Lacson said.

Aside from Bacolod City, the municipalities of Murcia, Pulupandan and the cities of Talisay, Silay and Bago are under the franchise area of Ceneco.

Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Benitez on Monday reiterated his position that he will support the JVA “if they can bring down power cost, stop brownouts and use green energy.”

He said that proponents are set to make a presentation either before or after the Holy Week “that could be opened to the public.”

“Let us look at the track record of the proponents,” he added.

Benitez said that based on his discussions with Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, the latter is very happy with MORE Power.

“Let us listen to them, argue based on merit and make a decision,” he added.

Earlier, Benitez said that he will not hesitate to support the reported joint venture if it will redound to the benefit of Bacolodnons.

Benitez said one of the things he wants to happen if the JV pushes through is to lower electricity rates.

Ceneco’s rate is at P15 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) while MORE Power sells electricity in Iloilo City at P13 per kWh as of February 2023.

The mayor also wants a stable supply, meaning fewer interruptions.

“If the power rate is low and there is stable supply, then we will support whoever runs our distribution system,” he added.

Benitez also wants the power distributor to tap renewable sources so it can leverage investors who are into sustainable investments.

“A lot of companies are looking for investment sites that are into renewables. There are even banks that refuse to loan money if the business is into fossil fuels. If they can harness renewables, we will support them,” the mayor said.

Acting Ceneco General Manager Arnel Lapore earlier confirmed that MORE Power submitted an unsolicited proposal for a joint venture undertaking with the cooperative.