ERC extends AWAT filing deadline, adjusts reset timelines

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has extended the deadline for Actual Weighted Average Tariff (AWAT) applications and adjusted the rate reset schedules for private distribution utilities (PDUs) under Performance-Based Regulation (PBR), following the release of ERC Resolution No. 01, Series of 2026.

Under the updated guidelines, the deadline for submitting AWAT applications has been extended from 60 to 120 calendar days from the effectivity of ERC Resolution No. 23, Series of 2025. This moves the filing deadline to March 22, 2026.

The extension was approved after the Commission reviewed its 2026 regulatory targets and considered requests from industry stakeholders.

According to the ERC, the revision aims to align filing timelines with regulatory processes to promote orderly and efficient proceedings.

The Commission also clarified that the Olongapo Electricity Distribution Company (OEDC) is not required to file an AWAT application.

Additionally, the previously stated lapsed period for OEDC under the AWAT resolution was deemed not applicable.

Further amendments were made to the timeline for filing Rate Reset applications under the Rationalized Rules for Setting the Distribution Wheeling Rates (RRDWR).

Specifically, PDUs in the Second, Third, and Fourth Entry Groups of the First Regulatory Period must now submit their Rate Reset applications nine months—rather than 12 months—before the start of their regulatory periods.

Under the revised schedule, the Rate Reset filing deadlines are as follows:

• Second Entry Group: April 1, 2026
• Third Entry Group: October 1, 2026
• Fourth Entry Group: April 1, 2027

“These amendments are intended to improve regulatory sequencing, facilitate the efficient conduct of hearings, and ensure the timely issuance of regulatory decisions, while upholding transparency and regulatory discipline,” the ERC stated.

ERC Resolution No. 01, Series of 2026 is available at: https://www.erc.gov.ph/Files/Render/issuance/47367.