The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) was urged to shorten the processing time for consumers switching electricity suppliers, saying a faster system would allow more customers to benefit from competition in the retail power market.
Senate President Win Gatchalian made the call after the ERC lowered the contestability threshold from 500 kilowatts to 100 kilowatts, expanding the number of eligible customers who may choose their own Retail Electricity Supplier instead of remaining solely with their distribution utility.
The adjustment is expected to open the market to more small businesses, schools, and other qualified electricity consumers.
“Opening the market is a big step, but we need to make switching faster and easier. Right now, it can take weeks,” the Senate President said.
“Kapag pinabilis ang proseso, mas maraming konsyumer ang magkakaroon ng pagkakataong pumili ng ibang supplier ng kuryente bukod sa kanilang distribution utility, gaya ng Meralco. Kaya mas madali nilang ma-access ang presyong mas competitive at mas malinis na mapagkukunan ng enerhiya,” he added.
He said making the switching process more efficient is crucial as the country accelerates its shift toward renewable energy and seeks to give consumers access to more affordable and cleaner power options.
“This reform comes at a critical time as we accelerate our transition to renewable energy. Making switching seamless will help drive demand for cleaner and more affordable power,” he emphasized.
He added that faster switching would help more consumers take advantage of lower electricity rates and cleaner energy sources.
“Inaasahan nating mas marami ang makikinabang sa mas murang kuryente at mas malinis na enerhiya,” Gatchalian said.