ERC welcomes KEPCO-Meralco metering project

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) welcomes the project of the Korean Electric Company (KEPCO) and the Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) as reported in one of the major dailies to install advanced automatic meter reading (AMR) technology in the latter’s franchise area.

“The ERC lauds KEPCO and Meralco for their keen interest in finding innovative ways to reduce distribution system losses and meter reading expenses. This project is perceived to yield operating efficiency and savings. The ERC believes that savings thereon will redound to the benefit of Meralco and its electricity consumers,” ERC Chairman Rodolfo B. Albano, Jr. expressed. However, the ERC Chief also said that the ERC will have to carefully review the project of KEPCO and Meralco to ensure that it conforms to applicable standards.

“The law mandates the ERC to evaluate the project proponent’s compliance to the set metering standards. Moreover, the Distribution Services and Open Access Rules (DSOAR) states in item 2.1.1.2 that every DU shall inform its customers of the manner in which meters are read, either by printing on its bills for each service, a description of the method used in reading meters, by distributing booklets describing such method or in any other suitable manner, ” Chairman Albano added.

Under the project, 2,515 units of AMR equipment will be installed in Meralco’s franchise area. Upon commissioning of the AMRs, Meralco will be able to automatically collect data from the electric metering device and transfer that data to a central database for billing and/or analysis. This state-of-the-art meter reading technology will enhance the meter reading process and will eventually lead to reduced costs and better customer service.

“The ERC hopes that other DUs and power providers will be similarly inspired in improving electricity services in the country by applying new technologies towards service efficiency and customer delight,” Chairman Albano said.

November 21, 2006