The Philippines’ energy regulator approves Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) to increase its distribution charges, affecting more than 8 million customers. The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) grants a new average distribution rate of about P1.48 per kilowatt-hour, following what outlets describe as the first rate review in roughly 15 years.
Outlets report the ERC decision sets a total revenue requirement of about P342 billion for the four-year period, which is lower than the amount Meralco sought. The approval translates to a higher distribution rate than the current P1.35 per kWh, described as an increase of about 13 centavos per kWh. One outlet notes Meralco’s strong profit figures, while another focuses on the size of the ERC-approved revenue requirement and its comparison with Meralco’s requested amount, highlighting differences between what the company requested and what regulators approved.
