Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) has launched a new web-based platform aimed at helping consumers better understand electricity prices, particularly the generation charges that make up the largest portion of standard power bills.

The platform, Presyo PH (Power Rates and Energy Supply Overview for the Philippines), was officially unveiled during an event held on April 28 at the Luxent Hotel, bringing together stakeholders from across the energy sector.

Presyo PH provides a consolidated view of electricity pricing and supply data across more than 150 distribution utilities and electric cooperatives nationwide, thus showcasing to users how power costs are determined.

Through the platform, consumers can see not only how much they are being charged but also where electricity is sourced, whether from coal, liquefied natural gas (LNG), or renewable energy, and which power plants directly supply their utility.

Angelo Dela Cruz, executive director of ICSC, said the initiative addresses a longstanding gap in public understanding of electricity pricing.

“We did not invent anything new… everything is publicly available… [but] no one is able to organize these numbers to make sense,” Dela Cruz said.

He noted that while data on electricity pricing and supply exists, it is often fragmented and difficult for consumers to interpret.

The platform places particular focus on generation charges, which account for more than half of electricity bills and are influenced by the type of energy sources and procurement strategies used by distribution utilities.

ICSC said electricity prices in the Philippines are also shaped by external factors such as global fuel price volatility and geopolitical developments that affect supply chains.

Coal remains a dominant source of power generation, accounting for around 60% of the country’s energy mix, much of which is imported, while LNG is becoming an increasingly important component.

Dela Cruz also clarified that long-term power supply agreements do not guarantee fixed electricity prices.

“Long-term power contracts do not have fixed prices… they have provisions that pass on price fluctuations to consumers,” he said.

As a result of all these factors, changes in global fuel prices and market conditions are reflected in electricity bills.

Beyond consumer use, Presyo PH is also designed to support policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders by providing comparable data on electricity prices, sourcing strategies, and cost drivers across utilities.

ICSC said the platform aims to promote more informed public discussion and better decision-making in the power sector, particularly as the country navigates ongoing energy challenges such as the current energy emergency.

How can greater transparency in power pricing help consumers better manage their electricity costs?

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