ERC Set to Mediate Clark Power-NPC Row

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is set to mediate the issue between Clark Power Corporation (CPC) and National Power Corporation (NPC) to avoid possible power interruption within the Clark Special Economic Zone (CSEZ).

ERC Chairman Manuel R. Sanchez said that “ERC is mandated to ensure the continuous supply of energy,” noting the adverse economic impact of cutting power supply to CSEZ.

Earlier, NPC issued a notice of disconnection to CPC due to the latter’s alleged non-payment of its power bills amounting to P71 million, consisting of contested and uncontested billings of P26 million and P45 million, respectively.

To prevent the power shut-off in the CSEZ, ERC held a pre-hearing conference on July 1, 2003. During said conference, NPC stopped the disconnection after CPC offered to settle the uncontested billing.

The parties also agreed to set another conference to discuss the contested amount of P26 million representing back billings arising from the reclassification of CPC from “Other Utility” to “Non-Utility.”

In a related incident, the National Transmission Company (TRANSCO) likewise issued a notice of disconnection to CPC for its alleged non-payment of transmission charges. CPC protested the disconnection, arguing that it has paid P14.3 million erroneously to NPC. It then requested NPC to remit said amount to TRANSCO.

July 16, 2003