By Myrna M. Velasco
The Department of Energy (DOE) has given go-signal on proposed changes in the rules of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) on provision of metering service.
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(MANILA BULLETIN)
In the modified WESM rules, it was noted that the aim would be to “enhance the performance rating of the WESM metering service provider.”
The policy change will also “clarify the location of metering points in the WESM for the improvement on the accounting of system losses.”
In addition, the amendments in the rules considered the implementation of enhancements to the design and operations of the electricity spot market.
A Circular issued by the DOE has stipulated that the rules changes were adopted following public consultation as well as solicitation of inputs from affected stakeholders.
Following that, the Philippine Electricity Market (PEM) Board has approved the propounded changes on the metering standards, as well as the procedures and the requirements for back-up meters.
The rules further cover registration, suspension and de-registration criteria for the meter service providers of capacities traded through the spot market.
It must be noted that aside from structural changes in the WESM, the country’s spot market will also be undergoing transformation on its trading platform – via its new market management system or NMMS.
On its operational structure, there had been recent changes implemented – with the institutionalization of the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines and the PEM Board, of which remaining function is as a governing body to the WESM.
For the new trading platform, in particular, this is targeted to be in full force of implementation at the WESM by October this year.