REALLY, we can’t seem to stop talking about MORE Power, “I Am Iloilo City’s” sole power distribution utility, simply because “Nong Moroy” just keeps on doing well for the city, perhaps more than what a good corporate citizen should do.
For starters, power rates have been dropping for seven straight months, giving the natives a huge relief in these trying times.
Electricity rates have dropped by P0.2410/kWh, which brought the rate down to a more wallet-friendly P11.4173/kWh from the previous rate of P11.6583/kWh.
This is the seventh consecutive month of consistent downward trend in electricity rates here since January of this year.
Residents can expect the reduced rates to reflect in their bills from July 18, 2023 to Aug. 14, 2023.
According to MORE Power president Roel Castro, a combination of factors caused the decrease in electricity rates:
* introduction of renewable energy sources since March of this year
* decreasing prices of coal in the global market
* dip in electricity prices in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market
As Castro said: “This is a testament to the dedication and patience of our Energy Sourcing team as they continuously source for cost-efficient power generation supply.”
Meanwhile, MORE Power is reminding eligible customers, including members of the 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) and marginalized end-users, to apply for the Lifeline Rate discount. This initiative aims to help electricity consumers, particularly those living below the poverty line.
And these are qualified for the Lifeline Rate:
* qualified household-beneficiaries under the “4Ps Act”
* marginalized end-users living below the poverty threshold established by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), meeting the required qualifications
Take note, consumption must remain below 95 kWh to qualify. And those disqualified are the following:
* marginalized end-users residing in condos or subdivisions (excluding government-certified projects)
* users availing net-metering services (unless consumption is less than 95 kWh before Net Metering)
* those not meeting the criteria for 4Ps beneficiaries
* individuals who have violated the Anti-Pilferage of Electricity Act
To avail of the Lifeline Rate, there are requirements.
For 4Ps beneficiaries:
* accomplished Lifeline Rate Application form
* most recent electricity bill
* valid government-issued ID (preferably 4Ps ID)
For non-4Ps members below the poverty threshold:
* accomplished Lifeline Rate Application form
* most recent electricity bill
* valid government-issued ID
* certification from the local Social Welfare and Development Office (SWDO) showing income below the poverty threshold
For 4Ps beneficiaries, the rate remains valid as long as they remain on the certified list provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, while for non-4Ps beneficiaries, the rate is valid for three years from the date of certification by the local SWDO.
Not bad at all. In fact it’s good. But wait there’s more.
Have you noticed? Lately there seem to be less overhead power lines in Calle Real.
This is because of the Underground Distribution Systems (UDS), which allows the underground distribution of electricity.
MORE Power uses the innovative method of Horizontal Directional Drilling to install underground pipes rather than digging an open trench to bury the pipe.
Aside from aesthetic improvement of Calle Real, underground power lines are less susceptible to weather-related disruptions i.e. strong winds, falling trees, reducing power outages in the aftermath of a typhoon.
UDS reduces maintenance as the power lines are shielded from environmental factors. Plus, underground power lines eliminate the risk of electrical shocks or hazards caused by fallen wires, particularly in pedestrian spaces.
Finally, “I Am Iloilo City” is going “green” with a groundbreaking collaboration between the city government, MORE Power, and the Energy Regulatory Commission to champion the use of renewable energy through the implementation of solar photovoltaic systems resulting into lower power costs, curb greenhouse gas emissions, ignite economic development, and streamline installation and permitting processes.
This collective effort will not only benefit our community but also contribute to the national goals of achieving a 35% renewable energy mix by 2030 and 50% by 2040.
Indeed more from MORE Power, a reliable partner in the development of “I Am Iloilo City”, according to Mayor Jerry Treñas.
I couldn’t agree more./PN
