By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) expects to issue its decision by the third quarter on Manila Electric Co.’s (Meralco) proposed P532.13-billion revenue requirement, which includes a petition to increase its distribution tariff for the 2027 to 2030 regulatory period.
ERC Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Francis Saturnino Juan said the commission is targeting the release of its ruling by late August or September after completing a thorough review of the utility’s application.
“We are already starting the evaluation and informal deliberations. The earliest we can take up the recommendation of our staff on Meralco’s application will most likely be toward the end of August or September,” Juan told reporters.
Before reaching a decision, the ERC will conduct a physical inspection of Meralco’s assets this month through next month as part of its validation process.
Juan said the commission is also evaluating the rate reset applications of Cagayan Electric Power and Light Co. Inc., Cotabato Light and Power Co. Inc., and Dagupan Electric Corp., adding that decisions on those applications could be released ahead of Meralco’s.
He stressed that the regulator would carefully examine all evidence submitted by Meralco and other stakeholders to ensure a fair and well-founded ruling.
Meralco is seeking authority to recover about P532.13 billion from consumers during its first regulatory period covering 2027 to 2030. The company has proposed an average distribution tariff of P2.34 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), significantly higher than its current approved rate of P1.35 per kWh.
According to Meralco, the proposed increase will primarily finance its P272-billion capital expenditure program, which aims to modernize and expand its electricity distribution network over the next four years.
ia/xf
