Negros Oriental stands at a crossroads in its energy journey, grappling with a pressing power crisis that threatens to impede growth and quality of life for its residents.
With a burgeoning population and rising energy demands, the existing 69 kilovolt power line managed by the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines is simply unable to keep pace, resulting in frustrating and disruptive brownouts during peak hours.
To address this dire situation, NGCP has proposed the installation of a new transmission line capable of handling 168 kilovolts of electricity.
While this initiative is essential for alleviating the current strain on our power supply, it has not come without its challenges.
Intense opposition from some landowners, who are concerned about health and safety risks associated with the new line being built near their homes, has emerged. Their call for NGCP to reroute the line introduces the specter of increased costs and extended delays—both of which could exacerbate the existing power woes.
In this critical juncture, the role of our political leaders is paramount. They must step up to facilitate dialogue between NGCP and the concerned landowners, emphasizing the urgency of resolving this situation for the greater good.
Sustainable energy access is not just an infrastructure issue; it’s a matter of public health, economic stability, and community welfare.
Without decisive action and cooperation from all stakeholders, the power crisis in Negros Oriental will only worsen, threatening to stall our progress and diminish our quality of life.
It is time for a collective commitment to prioritize our energy future and ensure that every resident has reliable access to electricity.
The path forward requires compromise, vision, and a united effort to harness power that we need for a brighter tomorrow.
