The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has suspended collection of the Green Energy Auction Allowance (GEA-All) for May and June to give electricity consumers some relief from high power prices.
Suspension of the P0.0371 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) charge – which is used to fund renewable energy (RE) projects — applies to all collection agents, including distribution utilities, retail electricity suppliers and National Grid Corp. of the Philippines.
"While the ERC remains fully committed to supporting the country’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, we also recognize the immediate challenges being faced by Filipino households due to rising prices and global uncertainties," ERC Chairman and CEO Francis Saturnino Juan said.
"This temporary suspension of the GEA-All collection is intended to provide additional relief to consumers while ensuring that renewable energy developers continue to receive the support provided under existing policies," he added.
The ERC said that GEA-All Fund of P466.49 million was sufficient to cover projected payment requirements during the suspension period.
It added that the temporary halt would not affect implementation of the government’s renewable energy initiatves and commitments under the Green Energy Auction Program.
A comprehensive review of the GEA-All fund status will be made next month to determine whether the suspension can be extended.
"Overall, the commission will continue to ensure that policies promoting renewable energy remain fair, transparent, and sustainable. At the same time, we are committed to implementing practical interventions that can help cushion consumers from sudden increases in electricity-related costs,” Juan said.
