Installation of 15 gensets for Iloilo City still hangs
After much publicity was given on the proposed installation of 15 modular generator sets to augment the power needs of Iloilo City, the board of directors of National Power Corporation (Napocor) reportedly would still review the proposal.
Mayor Jerry Treñas yesterday expressed concern on the latest development on the status of 15 modular generator sets intended for Iloilo City. The modular gensets are supposed to become operational by December.
Treñas said he was informed by Engr. Nelson Homena, head of the Napocor regional office based in Dingle, about the latest development regarding the 15 modular generator sets. Nothing is certain yet as the Napocor's board is still deliberating the plan.
The mayor could not say on whether there is irregularity in the lease contract firmed up between the Napocor and the Monarch Engineering Corporation, the winning bidder. The lease contract was consummated during the time of former Napocor President Cyril del Callar.
Months ago, the chief executive already announced that Napocor is requesting for an endorsement on the plan to interconnect the modular generator sets to Panay Electric Company Inc. (PECO).
The endorsement from the executive department would be forwarded to the Sangguniang Panlungsod. The interconnection from the NPC to the National Transmission Corporation (Transco), PECO and Global Business Power Corporation (GBPC) needs the approval of the city council. Transco will take care of the transmission lines from the power source to the power supplier.
Treñas said the presence of the 15 gensets will give certainty on the power supply of the city especially during Yuletide Season. He said he does not want a repeat of a total black out during Christmas and New Year's Eve.
Each modular generator set has the capacity of one megawatt. The installation of gensets is one of the solutions presented by Napocor when the city government asked for additional power from its Panay Grid. The power coming from the Panay Grid is not sufficient to supply the needs of the populace.
The chief executive said he will seek the help of Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez Sr, regarding the unclear status of the 15 generator sets. In the plan, the 15 modular generator sets would be stationed in the property of PECO at Barangay Bolilao, Mandurriao.