The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) of the Philippines has adopted Resolution No. 29, Series of 2026, updating and consolidating the regulations governing the type approval of electric meter products used for customer revenue metering.
The revised rules cover meters used by Distribution Utilities (DUs), Microgrid System Providers (MGSPs), and Redistributors. The framework aims to ensure accurate electricity billing, protect consumers and public interest, support modernization of the power sector, and establish a centralized database of approved meter models in the country.
The resolution applies to new meter types intended for revenue metering. Meters already in service before the rules take effect are exempted. Manufacturers, brand owners, and authorized distributors must obtain prior ERC approval before supplying new meter products to DUs, MGSPs, or Redistributors.
Applicants are required to submit documents including business permits, distribution agreements, product photographs, faceplate layouts, and National Telecommunications Commission certifications for communication modules, where applicable. They must also provide a Meter Type Test Report (MTTR) issued within 240 days from the testing notification. The testing laboratory must be independently accredited under the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation Mutual Recognition Arrangement.
The approval procedure includes pre-filing assessment and confirmatory testing. During the first stage, the ERC reviews electronic documents within five working days. Applicants that meet the requirements must then submit three sample meters for testing.
The confirmatory tests examine several performance parameters, including accuracy limits, no-load operation, starting performance, voltage and frequency variations, power factor effects, and internal heating. For meters equipped with Meter Communication Modules for Advanced Metering Infrastructure systems, applicants must also demonstrate remote reading, two-way communication, outage detection, and remote disconnect and reconnect functions.
After successful testing and validation, the ERC issues a Confirmation of Completeness, allowing the application to proceed to formal filing and docketing. Approved meter models receive a Certificate of Approval for Meter Type (CA-MT), which is valid for 10 years and cannot be extended.
The approved models will be published on the ERC’s official website and can subsequently undergo sealing and acceptance testing. Changes to internal components, display segments, or physical construction must be formally disclosed and may require additional testing or a new CA-MT.
Resolution No. 29 repeals Resolution No. 22 of 2010, Resolution No. 01 of 2015, and Resolution No. 16 of 2017 to remove overlapping requirements. Applications filed before the new rules take effect will continue to be assessed under the previous regulations, while revalidation applications for expired certificates have been discontinued.
The resolution was signed on September 14, 2026, and will take effect 15 calendar days after official publication.
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