RESIDENTIAL electricity consumers in Metro Cebu will pay higher power bills this July–August, following a P0.24 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) increase in rates that pushes the total residential charge to P11.27/kWh.
Visayan Electric implemented the rate hike due to a rise in generation charges, driven by higher electricity prices at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM). The utility also cited an increase in transmission charges as a contributing factor to the adjustment.
With the new rate, a household consuming 200 kWh will pay about P48 more in their monthly bill.
Visayan Electric encouraged customers to conserve electricity to help reduce their consumption and manage their bills.
The company advised the public to adopt energy-saving habits, especially during periods when generation and transmission costs are high.
In addition to advising on energy use, Visayan Electric reminded residents and contractors to coordinate with the utility before starting any construction near power lines.
The company said it needs to assess the area and apply safety precautions to avoid accidents.
“To ensure everyone’s safety, we strongly encourage the public to inform us of any construction projects near our power lines,” said Visayan Electric OIC-President and General Manager Mark Kindica.
The utility warned that construction near electrical infrastructure can be hazardous without proper guidance.
It urged those involved in such projects to request a risk assessment through its hotline at 230-8326 or by sending a message to its official Facebook page.
Visayan Electric serves Metro Cebu, covering Cebu City, Mandaue City, Talisay City, Naga City, and the municipalities of Consolacion, Liloan, Minglanilla, and San Fernando.(MyTVCebu)