As such, households consuming 200 kWh will see an approximately P85 increase in their monthly bills, the country’s largest electricity retailer said on Tuesday, Nov. 12.
This latest rate adjustment is mainly attributed to a P0.2884-per-kWh rise in generation charges.
A significant factor behind this increase was the depreciation of the peso by P2 against the US dollar, which affected 98 percent of the costs from independent power producers (IPPs) and 49 percent of those from power supply agreements.
Additionally, the expenses related to liquefied natural gas terminals used by the Sta. Rita and San Lorenzo plants contributed to the higher charges from IPPs.
Meanwhile, charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) rose slightly due to a 198-megawatt surge in demand and increased outage capacity.
Transmission charges also rose by P0.0724 per kWh due to higher ancillary service costs from the WESM reserve market. Taxes and other charges climbed by P0.0666 per kWh.
Disconnection moratorium for some storm-hit households
In response to the impact of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, Meralco has offered relief to storm-stricken areas declared under a state of calamity.
Eligible households with less than 200 kWh in monthly usage will be protected from disconnections until December 2024, with a six-month installment plan for October to December bills.
Meralco also reminded the public to observe safety practices during the holiday season, including avoiding overloaded circuits and using certified Christmas lights.
Customers may report service concerns via Meralco’s social media platforms or by contacting the Meralco Hotline.
