The Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) has sought the approval of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to refund customers Php13.9 billion, or Php0.1528 per kilowatt hour (kWh) within 24 months, reflecting the calculation of the actual weighted average tariff (AWAT) as against the previously approved average rate in 2015.
MERALCO said in its petition that it computed the AWAT at P1.4414 per kWh during the lapsed period, based on the actual revenues and kWh sales. The power giant’s actual revenues came from its distribution, supply, and metering charges.
The petition further states that the company is seeking a provisional authority that will allow customers to immediately enjoy the refund’s benefits, especially at this time.
MERALCO filed the petition to implement the refund given that the actual rate it collected was higher than the computed average rate that the ERC calculated in the approval of the interim rate.
The company stated that refund rate of Php0.1528/kWh would be reflected as a separate line item in customers’ bills during the refund period.
