The Negros Power rate increase for June 2026 is mainly driven by higher generation costs. These costs are affected by market conditions across the Visayas power grid.
Negros Power explained that the adjustment reflects higher electricity procurement costs. Similar increases are also expected among other distribution utilities across the region.
The average residential electricity rate for June 2026 is ₱13.8417 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This is an increase of ₱2.4609 per kWh from May 2026’s rate of ₱11.3808 per kWh.
According to Negros Power, the increase was primarily caused by higher costs of purchasing electricity from power suppliers.
What Caused the Negros Power Rate Increase?
One of the biggest contributors was the sharp increase in prices at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).
Electricity prices in the spot market more than doubled during the month. This happened because available power supply became limited while electricity demand remained high.
The period from April 26 to May 25 is typically a peak demand period for electricity.
During this time, several power plants experienced outages, maintenance shutdowns, and derated operations. These events reduced available generation capacity. They also placed additional pressure on the grid.
The situation prompted the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to declare Yellow and Red Alerts in both the Luzon and Visayas grids.
Meanwhile, power purchased from CENPRI also became more expensive. This was due to rising fuel prices in the global market.
The increase in CENPRI costs further contributed to higher generation charges.
Engr. Christian John Villena, Energy Sourcing Manager of Negros Power, explained that the increase reflects market conditions affecting the entire Visayas grid.
“In the interest of transparency, we want our consumers to understand that this increase is primarily due to higher generation costs resulting from limited power supply and increased fuel prices. The significant rise in WESM prices, coupled with higher costs from our power suppliers, has affected electricity rates throughout the region. This is not a situation unique to Negros Power. Electric distribution utilities across the Visayas are likewise expected to register increases in their electricity rates because these generation costs are driven by conditions affecting the entire grid,” Villena said.
He added that generation charges are pass-through costs. These charges do not form part of the distribution utility’s revenues.
Transparency Amid Higher Power Costs
While transmission charges posted a slight decrease during the month, this was not enough to offset the increase in generation costs.
For June 2026, the average electricity rates are:
• Residential (RES): ₱13.8417/kWh
• Low Voltage (LV): ₱13.7469/kWh
• High Voltage (HV): ₱12.8694/kWh
Negros Power also highlighted the value of daytime solar generation. Solar helps augment available supply during daylight hours.
Negros Island has significant solar generation capacity. These solar facilities help cushion spikes in WESM prices when they are producing electricity.
However, solar generation is unavailable at night. During this period, utilities need to source power from other suppliers, including the WESM, where prices can be higher.
Negros Power reiterated its commitment to transparency by keeping consumers informed about the factors affecting their electricity bills.
The company continues to pursue competitive and reliable power supply sources. It also encourages consumers to practice energy efficiency to help manage electricity consumption.
Consumers can help reduce electricity use through simple steps. These include turning off unused lights, unplugging appliances when not in use, and using energy-efficient devices.
Consumers will feel the impact of the Negros Power rate increase. However, the utility emphasized that the adjustment is mainly due to higher generation costs.
It is also affected by increased WESM prices, fuel costs, and market conditions affecting the entire power sector.
As supply conditions and fuel prices continue to influence electricity rates, Negros Power assures consumers that it remains committed to delivering reliable service and providing timely information about power rate developments.
Simple Ways to Conserve Energy
While market conditions affect electricity rates, consumers can also take simple steps to manage their monthly bills. Energy conservation helps reduce individual consumption and contributes to a more efficient power system.
Negros Power encourages consumers to practice responsible electricity use, especially during periods when demand is high.
Here are some simple energy-saving practices:
Turn off unused lights and appliances.
Make it a habit to switch off lights, televisions, and other appliances when they are not needed.
Unplug devices when not in use.
Chargers, gadgets, and some appliances can still consume electricity even when switched off. Unplugging them can help avoid unnecessary energy use.
Use LED lighting.
LED bulbs consume less electricity and last longer compared with traditional lighting options.
Set air conditioners at an efficient temperature.
Keeping air conditioners at around 24–26°C can help maintain comfort while managing electricity consumption.
Maximize natural light and ventilation.
During the day, opening windows and curtains can reduce the need for artificial lighting and help improve airflow.
Every small action can contribute to lower electricity consumption. When more consumers practice energy efficiency, it can help ease demand on the power system.
Do you have other ways to conserve energy that can help fellow consumers? Feel free to comment on this blog and share your tips and experiences on how we can all manage electricity consumption better during periods of higher power costs.
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