Electricity consumers in the Philippines are urging the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to postpone the implementation of a newly approved additional charge meant to support renewable energy projects. They argue that with power rates already high, the immediate focus should be on passing a measure that ensures a fair shift to cleaner energy sources.
Consumer Group Appeals for Deferment
Bas Umali, the National Coordinator for the consumer welfare group Kuryente.org, made a formal appeal to the regulatory body. "We respectfully ask the ERC to consider deferring the implementation of this measure while the Just Energy Transition bill remains under deliberation," Umali stated. He emphasized that this request considers consumers who are already struggling with expensive electricity bills and would be further impacted by new charges.
Umali's statement was a direct response to ERC Chairperson Francis Juan, who recently defended the approval of the Green Energy Auction Allowance (GEA-All) charge. This separate line item on electricity bills is designed to fund differential payments for renewable energy plants under the government's Green Energy Auction program. The charge is set to take effect starting January 2026.
High Bills and the Call for a Just Transition
The consumer advocate stressed that households and businesses are already burdened without this new fee. "We understand the long-term benefits of renewable energy, but right now we consumers are seeking immediate relief due to our prolonged burden under high electricity prices," Umali explained.
Instead of adding more charges, Umali and Kuryente.org are pushing lawmakers to prioritize the passage of the Just Energy Transition Bill. This proposed legislation aims to protect consumers from rising prices as the country moves towards cleaner energy sources. "We urge them to prioritize immediate and concrete measures to reduce electricity costs, as consumers have long endured injustice in the form of persistently high power rates," he added.
Understanding the New Charge
The GEA-All charge is distinct from the existing Feed-in Tariff (FIT) Allowance, which is a uniform charge consumers pay to support the development of renewable energy in the country. The new allowance specifically supports the Green Energy Auction program, a government mechanism to procure renewable energy capacity at competitive prices.
The core of the consumer group's argument is timing and prioritization. They acknowledge the importance of renewable energy development but insist that the government's approach must not further strain Filipinos who are already paying some of the highest power rates in Asia. The appeal puts the spotlight on the need for policy balance between long-term environmental goals and short-term economic relief for consumers.
