ERC mulls changes in Phil Grid Code

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is looking to amend the Philippine Grid Code to make the rulings more specific and attuned with the needs of the times.

The commission has asked the industry stakeholders to submit their comments on the proposed changes on or before April 15 in preparation for a public hearing to be held on May 5 and 6.

After the public consultation, the ERC’s Market Services Office is expected to submit to the commission the evaluation for its final approval.

Among the proposed amendments is the inclusion of the metering services providers in the scope of application of the Grid Code.

It is also being proposed under Sec. 2 of the said ruling that the word "initiate" should be changed to "coordinate." After the proposed change, the section will state that ERC should coordinate the Grid Code enforcement process and make recommendations to the five-man collegial body.

The proposed amendments will also allow the appointment of two representatives from the National Transmission Corp. (Transco) and the system operations independent non-stakeholder group in the Grid Management Committee (GMC).

Included in the proposed changes is the rule on GMC chairmanship which is currently selected by the ERC from a list of three members nominated by the GMC.