ERC plans to raise lifeline rate threshold

More 4Ps, low-income families to get free electricity

- By BRIX LELIS

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is moving to raise the lifeline rate consumption threshold to expand free electricity access for more low-income families, including 4Ps beneficiaries.

Under a draft ERC proposal, all qualified marginalized households consuming 50 kilowatt-hours (kWh) or less would get a 100-percent discount on their electricity bills.

Similarly, qualified Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries with accounts in their distribution utilities will automatically be enrolled in the lifeline subsidy program and receive a full discount.

To fund the program, however, all other subsidizing electricity consumers would be charged a uniform rate of P0.01 per kWh.