Davao Light assures enough supply for the summer season, but rates higher

ABOITIZ-OWNED Davao Light and Power Co. (DLPC) has given assurance there is enough power supply for the usual increased demand during the summer season, but apprised consumers that rates will be higher. “There is an increase in consumption during summer because it is hot and there is an increase in rates because of the dry rate of the National Power Corporation (NPC),” DLPC Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rodger S. Velasco said in an interview with the media. The rates during the dry season, generally from January to June, is at least P0.20 higher per kilowatt hour. NPC’s rate changes reflect variations in electricity demand, availability of different power sources, and fuel cost. DLPC data shows a peak in power demand during April and May. Meanwhile, Mr. Velasco said DLPC has already started tapping supply from the new San Miguel Consolidated Power Corp. (SMCPC) coal-fired thermal power plant in Malita, Davao Occidental. SMCPC’s has two 150-megawatt (MW) plants. “San Miguel has started supplying us since February this year. Their share in the power demand for DLPC’s franchise area will be 20%,” he said. Last year, DLPC and SMCPC signed a 60-MW supply contract. — Carmencita A. Carillo