Politics · Philippines Bureau
Bukidnon power bills surge as transmission costs spike in August
Electricity consumers across the Philippines, including those served by First Bukidnon Electric Cooperative, are bracing for higher utility bills this month following a sharp increase in transmission and ancillary service charges. The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines cited rising transmission rates as the primary driver of the increase.
LSN Philippines ·
VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon — Power subscribers in Bukidnon and nationwide are experiencing elevated electricity costs this August, driven by increased transmission and ancillary service charges announced by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP).
First Bukidnon Electric Cooperative, Inc. (FIBECO) customers are among those affected by the transmission rate hike. The surge in ancillary service charges, which cover grid operations and maintenance, has contributed significantly to the overall increase in generation and transmission expenses passed on to consumers.
The NGCP, which operates the country's national transmission network, cited operational requirements and system maintenance costs as factors in the rate adjustments. Such periodic increases in transmission charges are typically reflected in consumers' monthly billing statements and have become an ongoing concern for residential and commercial power users.
Consumers are advised to review their billing statements to understand the breakdown of charges and contact their respective electric cooperatives or distribution utilities for clarifications regarding the rate adjustments. Industry observers expect transmission costs may remain elevated pending further regulatory review.