By Filane Mikee Cervantes/PNA
MANILA — The House of Representatives on Monday approved on final reading a measure seeking to grant Solar Para sa Bayan Corporation (SPSB Corp.) a renewable energy distribution franchise.
With 198 affirmative votes, seven negative votes, and one abstention, the chamber approved on third reading House Bill 8179, which seeks to grant SPSB Corp. a 25-year franchise to construct, install, establish, operate, and maintain distributable power technologies (DPT) and mini-grid systems throughout the country to improve access to sustainable energy.
SPSB Corp. is owned by Senator Loren Legarda’s son, Leandro Leviste.
The bill requires the grantee to operate its DPT and mini-grid systems in the least cost manner.
In the interest of the public good and as far as feasible, the grantee shall modify, improve, or change its facilities and equipment to provide efficient and reliable service and reduced electricity costs.
The grantee shall also charge reasonable and just power rates for its services to all types of consumers so that business and industries shall be able to compete.
The bill prohibits the lease, transfer, or sale of the franchise or the rights or privileges acquired. It also prevents the transfer of controlling interest by the grantee to another person or entity.
The solar firm aims to help achieve the government’s goal of 100 percent electrification and affordable, reliable electricity for all Filipinos by 2022.
