POWER consumers are expected to see an increase in their electric bills starting November after the Cagayan Electric Power and Light Co. (Cepalco) implemented a 25 cents per kilowatt hour increase in the distribution rate.
Cepalco implemented the increase to compete with the increasing operational costs.
Marilyn Chavez, Cepalco’s assistant vice president and head of the customer and community relations, said Cepalco did not ask for an increase in the last five years.
She said the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) issued an order last May 28, authorizing Cepalco to implement the new distribution rates.
Under the new rate, residential customers with an average consumption of 150 kilowatt hours will pay P37.50 increase in its monthly bill.
The implementation starts this month and the increase will reflect on the November bill.
Chavez meanwhile assured residents whose consumption ranges from 0 to 100 kilowatt hours will get discount, under the Lifeline Rate classification.
Councilor Teodulfo “Bong” Lao, chairperson of the committee on public utilities said since the rate was approved by the ERC, the decision cannot be contested.