The Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative (OMECO) has announced updated power rates for August 2024 on Friday, reflecting the final month of charges under the Emergency Power Supply Agreement (EPSA) that concluded on July 25, 2024.

Residential consumers in Magsaysay, Rizal, Calintaan, and MAPSA areas will see rates of P21.4096 pesos per kilowatt-hour (kWh), while those in San Jose and Sablayan face slightly higher rates at P21.4170 and P21.4364 pesos/kWh, respectively.

Commercial and industrial rates vary by location but generally fall between P19.25 and P19.62 pesos/kWh.

Public buildings will be charged around P19.34-19.37 pesos/kWh, while street lighting sees the highest rates at approximately P22.11-P22.14 pesos/kWh.

In a Facebook post, OMECO officials noted that despite the EPSA’s conclusion in late July, consumers won’t experience significant rate reductions until September’s billing cycle.

This delay is due to the billing structure between OMECO and its power supplier, OMCPC, the electric coop said.

“The OMCPC billing to OMECO for July 25 to August 25 will only be reflected in consumers’ September bills,” OMECO explained. “This timing gap means August rates still largely reflect EPSA pricing.”

The cooperative pointed out that September bills should demonstrate more substantial savings as the full effect of post-EPSA rates takes hold.

OMECO serves the province of Occidental Mindoro, providing electricity to largely rural communities.

The recent EPSA was implemented to ensure stable power supply during a period of generation uncertainty.

Member-consumers have been urging OMECO to provide clear communication about the expected rate increases to help households and businesses plan accordingly.

As Occidental Mindoro transitions away from the emergency agreement, attention now turns to long-term power solutions such as the planned Batangas-Mindoro Interconnection Project.

Local officials are reportedly in talks with potential investors to enhance the island’s energy infrastructure and promote renewable sources.

Meanwhile, OMECO reminds consumers to monitor official announcements on the coop’s official FB page for the most accurate and up-to-date information on power rates and policies.