Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) consumers should brace for an increase in residential rate by P0.87 per kilowatt hour (kWh) this April, after the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) prices doubled this month, or from P3.5383/kWh to P6.6865/kWh.
This increase in generation charge has a ripple effect on Negros Power’s total average residential rate, from P11.4766 in March to P12.3563 per kWh for the April billing month, a statement from the distribution utility said.
The increase in WESM prices, driven by a combination of lower supply and higher demand this summer, was attributed to a combination of factors, including planned and forced outages of power plants, especially coal and natural gas facilities, increased demand due to extreme heat, and mismatch between supply and demand.
Negros Power has encouraged its consumers to use energy efficient appliances, turn off lights and electronic products when not in use, use fans instead of air-conditioners, keep windows and blinds closed during the hottest part of the day, and adjust thermostat.
By implementing these simple energy-saving tips, consumers can help reduce electricity bills this summer season, it added. ||
