Lawmakers called for a review of policies governing electricity supply and pricing, following recent rotational brownouts that have raised concerns over the stability of the country’s power sector.

During a joint hearing of the House Committee on Energy and the House Committee on Franchises, legislators emphasized the need to address technical, regulatory and financial issues affecting the industry.

Rep. Sergio Dagooc of the APEC Party-list said challenges in the power sector stem from a combination of problems in generation, transmission, regulation and market systems.

Dagooc also questioned additional charges passed on to consumers, including ancillary service costs paid to power plants to maintain reserve capacity, which are meant to prevent rotational brownouts.

"Respectfully requesting the ERC and DOE to review these circulars and policies. Some of these issuances are contributing to higher electricity costs, yet we continue blaming the wrong parties," he said.

Meanwhile, Rep. Jose Alvarez of Palawan cautioned against the unplanned construction of power plants, saying poorly located facilities could lead to inefficiencies and higher costs that are ultimately shouldered by consumers.

Alvarez said the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) should reassess whether existing policies adequately address issues related to power supply, transmission planning, reserve procurement and consumer welfare.

Lawmakers said the review aims to ensure a more reliable electricity supply while protecting consumers from rising costs.