Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 38)
The resolution is titled as the Standard Rules and Regulations Governing the Operation of Electrical Power Services, known as ERB Resolution No. 95-21, adopted on August 3, 1995.
The term 'electric utility' includes every person, whether natural or juridical, their lessees, trustees or receivers as well as municipalities, provinces and cities engaged in the operation of electric power service in the Philippines, for hire or compensation, with general or limited clientele, whether permanent or occasional.
Electric utilities must observe and comply strictly with all terms and conditions prescribed in their Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN), rules and regulations memoranda, orders and circulars of the Energy Regulatory Board, the laws of the Philippines, provincial resolutions, city or municipal ordinances, and any other rules or regulations issued by competent authorities.
Every electric power utility shall operate, maintain, and provide safe, reliable, adequate, efficient, and continuous electric service.
No, it is unlawful for any electric utility to give undue preference or make unjust discrimination in its service.
Electric utilities shall only install generating or distribution equipment authorized in their CPCN or subsequently authorized by the Board. No equipment can be increased, substituted, or withdrawn without prior authority from the Board.
Electric plants shall be constructed, installed, operated, and maintained according to the provisions of the Philippine Electric Code and any rules issued by the Board. In absence of applicable provisions, the U.S. Bureau of Standards National Electrical Safety Code applies.
They must adopt and maintain a standard frequency of sixty (60) Hertz with variations not exceeding one (1) Hertz above or below the standard frequency.
Electric utilities may require a bill deposit equivalent to estimated monthly billing, and a meter deposit equal to one-half of the current cost of the electric meter and related equipment. These deposits bear ten percent interest per annum and are refundable upon termination of service under certain conditions.
Service may be discontinued for nonpayment of bills after a 48-hour written notice, except on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and official holidays. Service shall not be refused or discontinued if the customer is not in arrears, except in cases of conspiracy to defraud the utility.