ERC sets push to clear backlogs, protect consumers

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is setting its sights on a stronger push for consumer protection and a more competitive power industry as it rolls out its strategic agenda for 2026.

In a statement, the ERC said the agenda is part of its push to strengthen transparency, improve public engagement and boost investor confidence in the power sector.

“Our five major directions for the new ERC include fair and evidence-based rate setting, timely resolution of pending cases, robust market oversight, creation of a stable and enhanced regulatory environment, and proactive, consumer-focused leadership,” ERC chair and CEO Francis Saturnino Juan said.

Among the key reforms, the ERC intends to strictly enforce least-cost obligations and complete long-delayed regulatory resets for distribution utilities.

The Commission also plans to set prices for technologies like offshore wind and liquefied natural gas.

To speed up decisions, the ERC will streamline hearings and internal processes,while complying with the Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS) and the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) law.

The EVOSS is an online system that speeds up approvals for power projects by imposing fixed timelines on energy regulators, including the ERC.

The EODB law, meanwhile, requires the ERC to simplify procedures, act on cases within set periods and reduce red tape to ensure faster and more transparent regulatory decisions.

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Market rules and technical standards will also be updated to accommodate new technologies.

The ERC likewise said approvals for utility investments, power supply agreements and renewable energy projects will be expedited to support industry growth.

Consumer protection remains a central priority, according to the regulator.

The plans include expanding subsidies for lifeline consumers and senior citizens, strengthening rights.