Electricity rates for June 2025 remain uncertain, according to the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), citing mixed trends in key cost drivers such as transmission charges and generation costs.
In a statement released Thursday, Meralco said that while transmission charges may rise due to higher reserve market prices, generation charges (the largest component of the electric bill) remain unclear pending final supplier billings.
“We hope [generation charges] remain flattish… following the significant decrease last May,” Meralco said, adding that lower prices at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) could help offset potential increases.
Transmission costs are seen higher due to pricier ancillary services that the grid operator passes on to end-users.
For consumers, the uncertainty comes after a welcome rate cut last month of P0.7499 per kWh, which translated to a P150 reduction in the typical residential bill (200 kWh usage).
A P19.96-billion refund, which remains in effect, is also expected to help dampen any potential hike this month.
Data from the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) show WESM prices dropped by 11.2 percent in May, averaging P4.01 per kWh nationwide. This was traced to increased supply availability that outpaced rising demand.
Meralco is set to announce the official rate adjustment for June next week, a key development closely watched by households and businesses alike as electricity prices remain a critical cost concern.
