Consumers are feeling the strain as electricity prices climb, with officials warning of possible rotational brownouts in parts of the country due to ongoing energy challenges.

In Dagupan City, residents like Jessica Alipio lined up early to settle their electricity bills, only to face higher charges. From a previous rate of P10 and 3 centavos per kilowatt-hour, electricity costs have risen to P10 and 93 centavos per kilowatt-hour.

“Medyo mahal na po ngayon yung mga bilihin. Sana bumaba na yung mga bilihin,” Alipio said.

The Dagupan Electric Corporation (DECORP) said the increase is largely driven by external factors.

“Gawa ito ng epekto ng fuel crisis. Pero nonetheless, sa DECORP ay na-mitigate namin yung increase,” Atty. Randy Castilan, chief operating officer of DECORP, said.

Higher generation charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market and increased transmission rates from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines also contributed to the rise in power costs.

Businesses are adjusting to cope with the higher expenses. At a local salon, workers have begun cutting back on electricity use to manage costs.

“Usually nagko-conserve energy kami. Tapos maaga kaming nagpapatay ng aircon ‘pag walang client,” Cheska Alcala, a hairdresser, said.

Castilan added that the situation may worsen as demand increases during the summer months.

“Ang nag-complicate sa situation natin, other sa fuel crisis ay papunta na tayo sa summer months. Usually, tumataas ‘yung konsumo,” he added.

Meanwhile, the National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR) has advised the public to prepare for possible rotational brownouts, especially in areas served by its Small Power Utilities Group. These include remote islands and isolated communities that rely on diesel-powered plants.

Some facilities are reportedly struggling to pay for fuel, affecting their operations. As a result, NAPOCOR said rotational brownouts may be necessary to manage limited power supply.