The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has announced plans to revisit the time-of-use (TOU) electricity billing mechanism to encourage consumers to become more energy-efficient. ERC chairman Monalisa Dimalanta said the current rules are outdated and require adjustment to better reflect consumer behavior and energy consumption patterns. The TOU system allows consumers to benefit from lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, making it economically sensible to shift energy usage to less-demanding times.
At the Energy Efficiency Day 2025 forum in Pasay City, Dimalanta said industry stakeholders will be consulted on the changes to ensure more effective demand-side management solutions. While no specific timeline for the policy update was provided, the goal is to create a more impactful scheme that will encourage consumers to alter their habits and reduce energy consumption.
In Metro Manila, the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) implements the TOU system through its Peak/Off-Peak (POP) program. Under the program, consumers who shift most of their electricity consumption to off-peak hours save significantly, with rates as low as P3.55 per kWh compared to P5.69 per kWh for regular customers. The program is designed for customers with high electricity consumption who meet specific criteria, such as using more energy during off-peak periods.
In tandem with the ERC’s push for regulatory changes, the Department of Energy (DOE) called for responsible energy and water conservation practices ahead of Earth Day. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla stressed the importance of energy efficiency in preserving environmental resources and urged the public to adopt small, sustainable actions to strengthen climate resilience.
