The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is discussing issues and concerns surrounding the competitive selection process (CSP) and pending power supply agreements (PSAs) with consumer groups.
ERC chairperson and CEO Agnes Devanadera had a dialogue with Freedom from Debt Coalition (FDC) and United Filipino Consumers and Commuters (UFFC) to discuss their concerns, particularly on the CSP and the Meralco PSAs on ERC’s desk.
“This consumer dialogue started from a simple conversation and has now developed into a forum where we can discuss the consumers’ issues and concerns on electricity matters. We will take their issues into consideration, but we also have to manage their expectations considering the fact that there is already a pending case before the Supreme Court on CSP,” Devanadera said.
In 2017, the ERC was accused of being involved with alleged ‘midnight deals’ to accommodate the Meralco PSAs involving different power plants.
And in December, the office of the Ombudsman ordered the suspension of ERC Commissioners Alfredo Non, Gloria Yap-Taruc, Josefina Patricia Magpale-Asirit and Geronimo Sta. Ana for one year.
“The suspension of the four commissioners will result in a paralysis,” Devanadera said, adding that there is over 5,000 MW worth of contracts that are pending in ERC.
The ERC chief added that the suspension could lead to possible power outages in Metro Manila and provinces