BACOLOD City – The Alliance of Concerned Consumers in Electricity and Social Services (ACCESS) in this city and Negros Occidental has called for collaborative efforts between distribution utilities (DUs) and consumers to mitigate the anticipated electricity rate increase this dry season.
ACCESS secretary general Wennie Sancho cited the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) warning of higher power rates in the coming months as temperatures continue to rise.
ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta has already advised consumers not to expect a reduction in their April electricity bills due to the elevated prices in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).
To cushion the impact on consumers, ACCESS urged DUs to explore options such as negotiating staggered payment schemes with their power suppliers if necessary.
“There are significant implications for consumers if the rate hike pushes through. It could strain household budgets, especially for low-income families,” Sancho said.
The group also emphasized the need for DUs to educate consumers on energy-saving measures, including the use of energy-efficient appliances and minimizing unnecessary electricity consumption.
Additionally, ACCESS proposed community-based initiatives such as neighborhood energy challenges to promote conservation and engagement.
Sancho stressed that collaborative efforts not only enhance energy efficiency and cost savings but also strengthen consumer participation and loyalty, fostering a sense of solidarity amid rising power costs./PN
