Negros Power Explains Annual Bill Deposit Review and Reassures Customers About Fair Billing
It’s common for electricity customers to worry when their monthly bill changes, especially if they see an unexpected extra charge. To clear up any confusion, Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) explains that the annual Bill Deposit review is a regular requirement set by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).
The company points out that this review is not a new fee or a company choice. It is a legal rule meant to make sure each customer’s Bill Deposit matches their real electricity use over the past year.
What Is a Bill Deposit?
A Bill Deposit is a security deposit required for every electric service account. It protects the utility financially and is usually about the same as one month’s average electricity bill.
Since electricity use can fluctuate throughout the year, a customer’s average monthly bill can change as well. That’s why the ERC asks all utilities to check Bill Deposits every year to ensure they remain fair and reflect actual usage.
This yearly review helps both customers and the utility by keeping Bill Deposits accurate and up to date with current electricity use.
Why Does Negros Power Conduct an Annual Bill Deposit Review?
Negros Power says the annual review complies with the rules of the Amended Magna Carta for Residential Electricity Consumers, as stated in ERC Resolution No. 3, Series of 2026.
These rules require utilities to review each customer’s average monthly bill over the past 12 months. This average helps decide if the Bill Deposit should be changed.
Instead of using the same amount for everyone, the review looks at each person’s actual electricity use. This way, the process stays fair and open for all customers.
When Will Customers See the Adjustment?
Customers will only notice a change to Bill Deposit during the month their service started.
The service anniversary month is the month the customer’s electric service was originally connected.
If no change is needed, customers won’t see any extra Bill Deposit charge or refund from the annual review.
When Will an Additional Bill Deposit Be Collected?
An adjustment is made if the current Bill Deposit is less than 90% of the customer’s average monthly bill.
For example, if a customer’s average monthly bill for the past year is ₱5,000 but their Bill Deposit is only ₱2,000, the ₱3,000 difference will be added to their electric bill during their service anniversary month.
This adjustment simply updates the security deposit to reflect the customer’s actual electricity use.
When Will Customers Receive a Refund?
The annual review can also help customers whose Bill Deposit exceeds the required amount.
If the Bill Deposit exceeds 110% of the customer’s average monthly bill, Negros Power will automatically refund the excess as a bill credit.
For example, if a customer’s average monthly bill is ₱4,000 and their Bill Deposit is ₱6,000, the extra ₱2,000 will be credited to their electric bill.
Customers don’t need to do anything to get this refund. It happens automatically.
Law requires the Process.
According to Atty. Lyana Paula Tomulto, Legal Officer of Negros Power, the annual Bill Deposit review is not a decision made solely by the company.
She explained that the Energy Regulatory Commission mandates the process through the Amended Magna Carta for Residential Electricity Consumers.
The goal is to make sure every customer’s Bill Deposit stays fair and matches their real electricity use over the past year.
She also points out that the rules have safeguards for customers. If a deposit is too low, only the needed amount is added. If it’s too high, the extra is refunded as a bill credit.
These steps help keep things fair and make sure the company follows national rules.
No Application Is Required
One of the best parts of the annual Bill Deposit review is that customers don’t have to visit an office or fill out any forms.
Negros Power handles the yearly review and automatically makes any necessary changes in accordance with ERC guidelines.
This makes things easier for customers and ensures everyone is treated the same under the rules.
Understanding the Five-Month Installment Option
Negros Power also clarified an important point regarding payment arrangements.
The five-month installment plan is only for Bill Deposit changes from the annual review.
This payment plan doesn’t apply to Bill Deposits for new service applications or to reconnecting accounts that were previously cut off.
Customers should remember this difference to avoid confusion when checking their electric bills.
Transparency Remains a Priority
Negros Power continues to encourage customers to stay informed about their electric service by reading the company’s Bill Deposit Advisory.
Knowing how the annual review works can help customers avoid worry if they see changes on their bill. Every adjustment is based on real electricity use and follows ERC rules, not random charges.
The company also reminds customers that support is always available for anyone with questions about their Bill Deposit or the annual review.
Why the Annual Review Matters
The annual Bill Deposit review is an important way to protect customers and ensure fairness for both customers and utilities. By matching Bill Deposits to real electricity use, it keeps deposits accurate and stops customers from paying too much.
Whether a customer needs to pay a little more or get a refund, the review uses a clear process set by the Energy Regulatory Commission. With automatic steps and customer protections, Negros Power wants to make the annual Bill Deposit review simple, fair, and easy for every household.