Net metering
In many countries, electricity consumers are able to implement a net metering policy in which electricity generated from their solar rooftops can be fed into the local electricity grid. This electricity is then purchased by the relevant electricity supplier. The result is that the consumers’ electricity bills are reduced and, sometimes, eliminated altogether.
This system exists in the Philippines but market penetration has been extremely limited, due mainly to the electricity suppliers not communicating with users. Meralco (Manila Electric Company), however, is an exception.
Some Meralco consumers installed solar rooftops during pandemic lockdowns. Family members working from home found that these rooftops helped to reduce net energy consumption. This meant that they were able to afford to live in a pleasantly cool home even in the height of summer.
We hope that local electricity suppliers, for example MORE Power and Ceneco (Central Negros Electric Company), will follow Meralco’s example. All that is required is for the electricity supplier to explain to the consumer what needs to be done.
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Justice
The Supreme Court (SC) has ordered special commercial courts to handle money laundering cases including forfeiture of dirty money. The SC has announced that these courts would now handle cases involving bank secrecy, foreign investments, e-commerce, and data privacy. In addition, the courts will exclusively hear cases involving violations of the Securities Regulation Code, Consumer Act, Price Act, and Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act.
I support the transfer of these lawsuits from regular branches of regional trial courts to special commercial courts.
My own experience, involving a simple case of financial misconduct, seemed to be beyond Bacolod RTC’s ability to handle the problem. A commercial court would, hopefully, be more proficient. Theoretically, at least, we shall see a more efficient administration of justice.
Let’s hope so./PN
