The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), on Thursday, Oct. 29, directed Distribution Utilities (DUs) not to implement any disconnection on account of non-payment of bills until December 31, 2020, for consumers with monthly consumption not higher than twice the ERC approved maximum lifeline consumption level.
This means consumers with 201 kilowatts per hour and higher can still face disconnection.
For all other customers, DUs and retail electricity suppliers are directed to implement a minimum of a 30-day grace period on all payments falling due within the period of enhanced community quarantine and modified enhanced community quarantine without incurring interests, penalties, and other charges.
Any unpaid balance after the lapse of the 30-day grace period shall be payable in three equal monthly installments without incurring interests, penalties, and other charges.
Customers who have the ability to pay are encouraged to settle their bills within the original due date to help manage the cash flow in the energy supply chain and ensure the continuous supply of electricity.
The DUs may offer less onerous payment terms to encourage early payment.
Government offices, government agencies, government-owned-and-controlled corporations, and other government instrumentalities are not covered by the 30-days grace period and installment payment arrangement provided. (JOB)