MORE Power, Negros Power, Bohol Light Cut June Rates

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

Electricity consumers in Iloilo City, Central Negros, and Tagbilaran City are expected to see lower power bills this month after three utilities under Primelectric Holdings Inc. (PHI) reduced their rates for June.

MORE Electric and Power Corp. (MORE Power) said its residential rate in Iloilo City dropped by PHP 0.61 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), from PHP 11.12/kWh in May to PHP 10.52/kWh this month.

This translates to a PHP 122 reduction for households using 200 kWh, offering some relief as families face additional spending for school-related expenses.

In Central Negros, Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) cut its rate by PHP 0.55/kWh, from PHP 11.69/kWh to PHP 11.14/kWh.

A household consuming 200 kWh will save around PHP 110 this June.

Tagbilaran-based Bohol Light Company Inc. made the biggest cut among the three, lowering its rate by PHP 0.75/kWh—from PHP 11.07/kWh to PHP 10.32/kWh.

The decrease will give an estimated savings of PHP 150 for customers using 200 kWh.

The power firms attributed the lower rates to cheaper generation costs at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) and reduced charges for ancillary services and reserves.

All three utilities reported having the lowest power rates in their respective regions.

“These rate reductions are a reflection of Primelectric Holdings Inc.’s commitment to proactively manage power supply, maximize market opportunities, and pass on the savings to our consumers,” said Roel Z. Castro, PHI president and CEO.

He said the reductions were possible due to a combination of energy trading strategies and ongoing efforts to reduce system losses.

“We recognize the economic challenges faced by households and businesses, and we remain firm in our mission to deliver the most affordable and dependable electricity services to the communities we serve.”

While the drop in rates provides short-term relief, Castro said the long-term goal is to keep services efficient and stable through infrastructure upgrades and better network performance.

“At the end of the day, it’s about making life a little easier for our consumers. Every peso saved on electricity is a peso that can go toward food, education, and other family needs — and we’re committed to being a responsible partner in that effort,” Castro added.

Primelectric Holdings is the parent company of MORE Power, Negros Power, and Bohol Light, which operate private distribution utilities across the Visayas.