New power retailer expands utility partnerships as market opens further

NEW retail electricity supplier Rockport Power, Inc. said it is expanding partnerships with power distributors and electric cooperatives as it seeks to grow its market presence following the implementation of a lower customer eligibility threshold under the retail competition and open access (RCOA) program.

The company said it has partnered with Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), Batangas I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (BATELEC I), and Nueva Ecija II Electric Cooperative, Inc. Area 2 (NEECO II-Area 2).

Rockport Power also said it is seeking to collaborate with Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ZAMCELCO), as it expands its presence in Mindanao.

“We see our role not just as a supplier, but as a partner in helping Filipinos find real savings,” Rockport Power President Marvee M. Espejo said in a statement on Sunday. “By working with local utilities, we are helping customers unlock more competitive and optimized energy solutions.”

Retail electricity suppliers participate in the RCOA program, which allows eligible electricity consumers to choose their electricity supplier instead of purchasing power solely from the distribution utility serving their franchise area.

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) lowered the eligibility threshold under the program to 100 kilowatts (kW) from 500 kW, a change that took effect on June 26 and expanded the pool of customers eligible to choose their electricity supplier.

Rockport Power said it is broadening its presence in additional distribution utility service areas as it seeks to offer customers more supplier options.

“Our goal is to make these programs accessible and practical options for anyone seeking to cut their energy costs,” Mr. Espejo said. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera