Consumers should brace for higher electricity bills starting next month amid rising fuel costs driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, a Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) official warned Thursday, March. 12.
Engr. Christian John Villena, NEPC Corporate Energy Sourcing and Regulatory Affairs Manager, said electricity charges could jump by as much as ₱2 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) if petroleum prices remain elevated.
Villena noted that the surge in fuel prices is a broader economic concern, predicting that 45 percent to 65 percent of basic commodities may also see price hikes in the coming weeks.
For March consumers are already facing an increase of 30 to 35 centavos per kWh, he said.
NEPC Vice President and COO Engr. Joe-mel Zaporteza attributed the adjustments primarily to rising generation costs.
While rates are trending upward, the company assured the public they are exploring measures to mitigate the financial impact on consumers, he said.
INFRASTRUCTURE EXPANSION
Meanwhile, to address the growing power demand in Bacolod City, NEPC has commenced the construction of two new substations, Zaporteza said.
Capitol Substation at San Juan Street is slated for completion within the year.
Megaworld Substation at Lopez Jaena Street is expected to be operational by next year.
Zaporteza emphasized that the city’s rapid commercial growth and the rise of large business establishments have made these additional facilities essential.
The substations are part of a larger ₱130 million rehabilitation project for the 69kV transmission lines, aimed at improving grid reliability and service efficiency across the franchise area, he said.*
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