The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has provisionally approved a higher refund of P19.96 billion for Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) customers, equivalent to P0.1189 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This is larger than Meralco’s original proposal of P19.1 billion.
The refund covers billing adjustments from July 22 to December 2024, reflecting differences between projected and actual charges to ensure customers only pay fair rates.
The ERC said the refund is currently planned to be spread over 36 months, but it is studying whether this period can be shortened to give faster relief to consumers.
ERC officials said the move comes after public feedback calling for quicker refunds, especially amid rising living costs. Commissioner Paris Real expressed support for a shorter payout period, saying it could help consumers without affecting utility operations.
ERC chairman Francis Saturnino Juan added that a final decision on possibly reducing the refund period will be released soon, aiming to help offset expected increases in electricity prices.
The ERC is the government body that regulates power rates and handles cases affecting electricity pricing in the country.
