POWER prices in August averaged P5.94 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), down by 3 centavos from P5.97 per kWh back in July, the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines Inc. (Iemop) said, citing the increase in availability of hydro plants.

'Despite increase in demand for August, the available supply is higher for this specific billing period, hence, there is a wider supply margin mainly because the hydropower plants' contribution has increased,' said Arjon Valencia, Iemop corporate planning and communications manager.