Group flags power rate hikes, urges efficiency reforms

The Cebu Electricity Rights Advocates (CERA) has expressed concern over the latest electricity rate increases imposed by major power distributors in Cebu, warning that the adjustments are placing additional strain on household budgets across the province.

- Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/FPL

In a statement released yesterday, CERA convenor Nathaniel Chua said the group was dismayed by the recent rate hikes implemented by Cebu Electric Cooperative I, Cebu Electric Cooperative II, and Cebu Electric Cooperative III-collectively known as CEBECO. The cooperatives' rates now average P13.37 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), reflecting increases of P1.30/kWh and P0.33/kWh in recent billing cycles.

Chua added that Visayan Electric (VECO) has also adjusted its rate to P12.79/kWh, up by P0.35/kWh.

"While we recognize the complexities of the energy market, the financial impact on Cebuano households must be balanced with more aggressive utility-side cost-saving measures," Chua said.

According to CERA, the price increases are driven by both external and internal factors. Electricity demand in Cebu is estimated to be growing by around 150 megawatts annually, prompting CEBECO to source additional supply from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), where prices are highly volatile.