Lower power rates in November, says Meralco

MANILA, Philippines–Power rates this month will be reduced by 41 centavos per kilowatt-hour, (kWh), the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) announced. The reduction in rates is due to lower generation costs resulting in part from a decline in forced plant outages, and from the regularization of Malampaya operations.

The power distributor noted that the generation charges for November were reduced by P0.245 per kWh due to the improved availability of power plants, as well as the lower cost of fuel in the supply month of October.

Furthermore, there were no supply restrictions on the Malampaya gas facility, which also helped in the lowering of electricity cost.

Meralco explained that based on the decreased rates, an average household with a consumption of 200 kWh can anticipate a decrease amounting to roughly P82 in its electricity bill.

Apart from the reduced cost of electricity, consumers can further lower their bill – thereby increasing their savings on the cost of power – by implementing energy saving tips during the Christmas season, Meralco said in its public advisory.

“For those who are thinking of buying Christmas lights, they may consider buying the LED type. Although relatively more expensive than the conventional Christmas light, the LED type is more efficient in terms of power consumption,” the advisory stated.