Nasecore

NASECORE asks DOE to conduct systems audit of NGCP

January 2, 2022 People's Journal 522 views

THE National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms, Inc. (NASECORE) has called on the Department of Energy (DOE) to conduct a systems audit of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) for its alleged failure “to ensure the quality, reliability, security and affordability of the supply of electric power” as required by law.

In a letter to Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi dated December 21, 2021, NASECORE alleged that “this failure had been repeatedly witnessed during the 2013 Super Typhoon Yolanda, Typhoon Ruby in 2014 and the earthquake of 2017 due to its apparent inadequate, weak and grossly unreliable transmission system that are easily felled by typhoons.”

NASECORE President Pete Ilagan said this performance of NGCP is unfair to electric cooperatives and distribution utilities who bear the brunt of the blame from consumers for the grid operators’ weak transmission system. “Sadly, this is a recurring and perennial experience”.

“Where have the huge annual funds provided by the consumers thru their monthly rate payments and granted by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) gone?” This monies are meant to assure the consumers of a quality, reliable, secured and affordable supply of electricity.” Ilagan said.

NASECORE urged the Energy Department conduct an immediate and transparent audit (an actual ocular inspection and documentation) of the NGCP transmission system to determine the required upgrading and improvisation that will establish a resilient transmission system nationwide. It also urged the ERC to conduct a regulatory audit of the funds it provided NGCP meant specifically for Capital Expenditures which covers the rehabilitation and upgrading of the nationwide transmission system.

A review of the Concession Agreement of NGCP with the National Transmission Company (TRANSCO) for possible violations as well as a review of NGCP’s congressional franchise by the Joint Congressional Energy Commission (JCEC) should be conducted to protect public interest, Ilagan added.

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