Beneco sets power projs, cheaper electricity rates

BAGUIO CITY -- The Benguet Electric Coop. has set more power generating projects to lessen power rates for consumers in Baguio and Benguet, despite losses in revenues due to Covid pandemic.

Beneco general manager Melchor Licoben, in recent media forum, said the power cooperative will provide stable, affordable and reliable electricity even with closure of many businesses due to community quarantine.

He said the electric cooperative’s revenue was down by 19 percent or with a foregone revenue of around P126 million the past four months.

Despite this, with proper management of programs, Beneco stayed afloat and hopefully businesses will soon be back to normal, Licoben said.

In coping with Covid-19 , Licoben said health and safety protocols were set  for payment process for consumers.

From the main office along South Drive to other collection outlets, meter readers and collection agents are implementing a no contact rule while linemen are home-based and on call for repair and maintenance works.

Beneco, he added, also set up a drive through payment scheme at their office along South Drive.  

Licoben said Beneco is continuing with its sitio electrification program. To date, 353 sitios in Baguio and Benguet were energized under the government’s SEP Subsidy.

Beneco’s electricity has competitive price and the electric cooperative’s goal is to further bring down the cost of electricity, Licoben said. “Beneco is also working on power generation projects especially on renewable energy.” – PIA CAR