The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has alerted consumers nationwide of the possibility of higher electricity rates as temperatures have risen in the past few days.
ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said consumers must not expect reduction in the April billing due to the higher priced electricity in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).
The Alliance of Concerned Consumers in Electricity and Social Services (ACCESS) led by its president Wennie Sancho, manifested that in order to cushion the bill shocks on consumers, collaborative efforts between the DU’s and the consumers are necessary. At the same time, the leadership of ACCESS suggested that DU’s may initiate talks with their respective suppliers on the staggered payments of electricity bills if it is necessary.
According to a press release, Sancho said there are significant implications on the consumers if this will be implemented. They can expect an increase in their electricity bills which may strain the household budget, especially for low-income families.
The ACCESS leadership stressed that there is a need for a collaborative initiative to mitigate the incoming problem. DU’s can educate consumers on energy conservation practices such as using energy efficient appliances and turning off lights and electronics when not needed. DU’s and consumers can collaborate on community based initiatives such as neighborhood energy challenges to promote energy conservation and community engagement, he said.
Collaborative initiatives can promote energy efficiency which can lead to cost savings and reduced environmental impact. Moreover, joint efforts can foster a sense of solidarity and promote customer engagement which can lead to increased consumer satisfaction and loyalty, Sancho’s statement concluded.*
