Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, Iloilo City anticipates a surge in applications for the net metering and lifeline rate programs. Roel Castro, president and CEO of MORE Electric and Power Corp., expressed support for the President’s focus on the energy sector, stating, “We are very pleased with the President’s recent State of the Nation Address, especially his inclusion of prioritizing the energy sector, and we support this move. Our vision at MORE Power aligns with the President’s plans for the country.”
In 2023, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) signed a tripartite agreement with MORE Power and the local government to establish a satellite one-stop shop office in Iloilo City, streamlining the processing of net metering and distributed energy resources (DER) applications. The net metering program allows consumers with solar renewable energy facilities under 100 kilowatts (kW) to connect to the distribution utility and contribute to the renewable energy supply. Meanwhile, DER is available for larger businesses with capacities exceeding 100 kW, enabling them to offset their electricity consumption and reduce bills.
Currently, MORE Power serves 491 net metering consumers, with 34 applications in progress. In June alone, the company utilized 237,780 kilowatt-hours (kWh) generated through the net metering program. Iloilo City Hall is one of the early adopters, having applied for a 60-kW system in 2024.
Additionally, 5,610 consumers benefit from the Lifeline Rate program, a number expected to grow following the proposed expansion. During his SONA, Marcos announced that individuals in the Listahanan would be included as Lifeline Rate beneficiaries to help lower their expenses.
Castro emphasized that the implementation of the Net Metering and Lifeline Program is a significant step toward equitable and sustainable energy access. “Through these initiatives, MORE Power encourages active consumer participation while ensuring that marginalized sectors benefit from more affordable electricity and renewable energy, recognizing that access to energy is not merely a service but a right for communities,” he stated. He also noted that the power utility is investing in modern technologies to enhance operational efficiency and service reliability.