ERC sets deadline to apply for COC
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) issued Resolution No. 10-02 setting the deadline for entities with self-generating facilities (SGFs) to secure a Certificate of Compliance (COC), to operate their existing facilities or newly constructed facilities used to generate electricity until 31 March 2005. It also prescribed the fines and penalties for non-compliance.
On the other hand, ERC Resolution No. 10-03 resolved to request assistance from the Local Government Units (LGUs) by way of conducting information dissemination to all commercial and industrial establishments within their respective jurisdictions regarding the COC requirements under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA). The partnership of ERC with the LGUs is expected to strengthen the enforcement of COC compliance by entities with SGFs.
ERC expressed its confidence in the capability of the LGUs to assist the Commission in its drive to inform the SGFs of its obligation to register with ERC and comply with the provisions of the EPIRA on securing a COC in order to operate its facilities to generate electricity. The purpose of ERC, among other things, is to be able to monitor all generating facilities in the country, SGFs included.
The EPIRA and its Implementing Rules and Regulations require all facilities owned and constructed by an end-user for such end-user’s own consumption or internal use, whether for back-up or otherwise, to secure a COC prior to operation. Exempted from the COC requirements are generation facilities for use by households, clinics, hospitals and other medical facilities.
ERC is closely monitoring the operations of generating facilities in order to promote public safety and efficiency in the electric power industry.
November 9, 2004