Meralco power rates to go up in March

MANILA, March 11 ------ Meralco electricity rates are going up in March. The power distributor said rates are increasing by P0.64/kWh because of higher generation and transmission charges. The adjustment brings the total rate to P13.8161 per kWh.

This means electricity bills are going up by the following amounts:

Consumption Increase

200 kwh P129

300 kwh P193

400 kwh P257

500 kwh P321

Meralco attributed the hike primarily to a 70 percent surge in ancillary service charges from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) Reserve Market. Higher generation charges, fueled by fixed costs from power purchase agreements, also contributed to the rise, offsetting improved supply conditions in the Luzon grid.

The price hike comes as the government warns of energy security risks linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict and rising domestic temperatures. Electricity demand historically jumps by up to 33 percent during the Philippine summer as cooling appliance usage peaks. “We are entering a period when demand for electricity traditionally peaks, and external factors are adding pressure to energy costs,” said Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga. “By embracing energy efficiency, consumers can have better control on their electricity bills and at the same time, contribute to mitigating the impact of external factors on electricity costs,” he added.

Meralco, the Philippines' largest power distributor, noted its own distribution charge has remained unchanged since August 2022.

Source: news.abs-cbn.com