Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 29) — Power firms cannot cut the electricity supply of clients with low consumption for the rest of the year even if their bills remain unpaid, the Energy Regulatory Commission said.
Citing the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act, the regulator said in an advisory issued onThursday that distribution utilities cannot disconnect customers who use up relatively low electricity supply in a month.
The commission said clients who take up not more than twice the “maximum lifeline consumption level” –– or those consuming 200 kilowatt hours (kWh) or lower per month –– cannot be disconnected from power lines even if they have not paid their bills.
The Bayanihan 2 law is meant to provide additional relief to Filipinos displaced by the pandemic and the resulting recession.
ERC rules classify clients who consume not more than 100 kWh per month as part of the “lifeline” segment that enjoys lower rates and charges compared to big clients.
All other consumers may avail of a 30-day grace period in settling their balances which fall due during lockdown periods without earning interest, penalties, and other charges.
“Any unpaid balance after the lapse of the 30-day grace period shall be payable in three equal monthly installments without incurring interests, penalties, and other charges,” the ERC said in a post.
Meanwhile, consumers who can afford to pay their bills are encouraged to do so to allow power companies to manage cash flows and ensure sustained electricity supply.
The ERC also told power distributors to disseminate the new rules through a bill insert to inform their customers. The order took effect October 29 upon posting on the ERC website.
Government agencies and units are not allowed to avail of the grace period and installment payments.
