Cusi to push for total electrification by 2022

by Alena Mae S. Flores – April 02, 2017 at 08:40 pm

from Manila Standard Today

The Energy Department is pushing for total household electrification by 2022 from 90.65 percent as of December last year.

“As a priority concern, we strongly aim for total household electrification by the end of President Duterte’s term (by 2022),” Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said in a speech over the weekend before the Rotary Club of Cubao.

He said Luzon and Visayas were almost fully energized at 95.5 percent and 94 percent, respectively, but Mindanao’s electrification level was far behind.

“In Mindanao, we are doubling our efforts to increase its current 74 percent energization status. We are aggressive in working our way up to achieve our desired 100 percent mark,” Cusi said.

He said the department was facilitating the provision of electricity service to the unenergized areas.

“With support from various sectors, we are optimistic that we can make it happen,” Cusi said.

He said the government also aimed to reduce power costs. The Philippines has one of highest electricity rates in Asia, affecting its competitiveness in the global market.

“The next big question is how much is the cost of electricity? One of my ultimate visions as the steward of the DoE is to provide affordable electricity to our consumers. I want our country to be out from the list of being one of the highest rates in Asia,” Cusi said.

He said the department would policies that would make the electricity market more competitive in order to bring down the cost of electricity.

He said the policies should also address “the perennial concerns of system inefficiencies that add costs” and burden consumers.

“We are also inviting more energy investors to foster innovative solutions and dynamism in ensuring fair competition in the sector,” Cusi said.