THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said it will identify pending applications that it deems critical and subject them to expedited approval processes.
“We will do everything we can to accelerate the resolution of applications filed before the ERC. Streamlining our processes is key to fulfilling our commitment to a more responsive and revitalized ERC,” ERC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Francis Saturnino C. Juan said in a statement on Wednesday.
In a three-page resolution promulgated on Sept. 29, the ERC said it will resort to summary proceedings for critical applications instead of making them go through the regular process.
The summary proceedings apply to applications seeking authority to develop and own or operate dedicated point-to-point limited transmission facilities, capex project proposals, and confirmation of over/under recoveries.
The critical category also includes power supply agreements, issuance of certificates of public convenience and necessity, and business separation and unbundling plans.
The ERC noted, however, that summary proceedings will only apply in situations when applications require no intervenors or are not being contested. When there are intervenors, parties involved must agree to submit to summary proceedings.
Summary proceedings are authorized by the ERC’s Revised Rules of Practice and Procedures. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera