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The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), led by newly appointed Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Chairperson Jesse Andres, is committed to reforming the agency’s processes to address backlogs and improve service delivery. Appointed on September 25, Andres has already met with ERC commissioners and expressed a clear focus on efficiency and transparency during his tenure.
In an interview with Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon on Friday, Andres acknowledged the significant backlog of applications within the ERC, stating, “I understand there are hundreds, even thousands of backlogs in the service we need to address.” Known for his problem-solving skills, Andres emphasized his proactive approach: “One of my strengths is thinking outside the box and finding ways to make things work more efficiently. I’ve already identified ways to improve the process.”
Accelerating Application Approvals
Andres prioritizes rapidly approving energy applications. As representatives from the ERC gear up for new leadership, Andres revealed that faster resolutions for existing applications could happen as soon as next week. He blamed the holdups on regulations that he intends to clear.
According to him, regulations must be examined to speed up the process. The private sector frequently expresses the first concern about the situation being too slow. Accelerating the response to their applications will demand considerable reforms.
This vowed dedication occurs when the energy industry confronts major hurdles, including energy shortages and increasing electricity rates. Expectations are high for Andres to improve how we tackle these problems.
Commitment to Stakeholder Engagement
While boosting process speed, ERC’s Officer-In-Charge also emphasized enhancing dialogue and partnerships with stakeholders. He pointed out that promoting clear communication and cooperation with stakeholders is vital. He noted that teamwork is vital, and he guaranteed a more open and collaborative framework for ERC operations. The objective is to enhance a regulatory system that addresses consumer and energy supplier needs while also improving engagement with stakeholders.
Path to Lower Electricity Prices
One of the pressing questions posed to Andres was whether his leadership could lead to a reduction in electricity prices. While acknowledging the complexities involved, Andres promised to provide a clear explanation after one year of leadership. “After one year, I will explain how we have laid the foundations for a sustainable decrease in electricity prices,” he said.
This statement aligns with ongoing efforts to reform the energy sector, particularly in terms of fostering competition and ensuring that power generation and distribution are managed efficiently. The ERC’s role in regulating electricity prices is critical, especially as consumers express concern over rising energy costs.
Ongoing Work Despite Leadership Uncertainty
The ERC is currently facing leadership uncertainty following the six-month suspension of Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta, imposed by the Office of the Ombudsman on August 20. The case, filed by the National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms Inc. (NASECORE) in November 2023, claims that Dimalanta’s actions enabled an electric company to pass on higher charges to consumers without the necessary approval from the ERC.
Despite this, Andres emphasized that the Commission’s work must continue. “We cannot wait for the decision of the Office of the Ombudsman,” he said, stressing that the ERC has a responsibility to move forward with its regulatory functions, regardless of the pending case.
Nuclear Energy Development: A Strategic Priority
In parallel with the ERC’s regulatory reforms, the Department of Energy (DOE) is pushing for the development of nuclear energy as part of the Philippines’ long-term energy strategy. DOE Director for Energy Utilization Management Bureau Patrick Aquino recently called for the ratification of treaties related to nuclear energy that the Philippine government has signed.
Speaking at the same briefing, Aquino emphasized that Senate concurrence on these treaties is essential before the country can acquire nuclear technologies from international partners. “Under our Nuclear Energy Plan and Roadmap, we want to ensure that we have a solid legal and regulatory framework in place,” he said. “This includes the conventions and treaties we have signed with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which need to be ratified.”
The DOE is also exploring creating a dedicated regulatory body for nuclear energy. The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) is responsible for promoting and regulating nuclear technology. However, Aquino suggested that separating these functions would enhance the country’s capacity to manage nuclear energy more effectively and safely.
The Future of Philippine Energy
As the Philippines continues to grapple with challenges in its energy sector, from rising electricity costs to regulatory inefficiencies and the need for sustainable energy sources, the initiatives led by Andres and Aquino signal a positive shift toward reform and modernization. With the ERC poised to streamline its approval processes and the DOE focused on nuclear energy development, these efforts are expected to lay the groundwork for a more stable and affordable energy landscape in the future.
Conclusion
The ERC under Jesse Andres aims to reduce regulatory backlogs, enhance transparency, and engage stakeholders more effectively. At the same time, the DOE’s push for nuclear energy development presents a long-term solution to the country’s growing energy needs. Together, these efforts reflect a commitment to improving the Philippine energy sector for both the private sector and consumers.