ERC directs Region I DUs to collect IRGCS on a staggered basis

The Energy Regulatory Commission issued a directive to Distribution Utilities (DUs) in Region I to bill consumers on a staggered basis, the lump sum differential billing received from TRANSCO for the months of October 2003 to February 2004.

In an order dated September 24, 2003, the ERC granted TRANSCO the authority to implement the 1st stage of the Intra-Regional Grid Cross Subsidy Removal as authorized by Section 74 of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA).

The effect of ERCs order to stagger the collection from the end-users is to mitigate the rate shock that would result from the TRANSCO differential billing. “This is in line with our mandate to balance the interests of consumers and industry players,” Chairman Rodolfo B. Albano said.

May 13, 2004