With the looming dry season, the Department of Energy (DOE) is reminding the public to adopt energy efficiency measures to manage electricity consumption and ensure the stability of the country’s power supply.
In a statement on Monday, the DOE urged the public to refrain from or to reschedule high-energy-consuming activities during peak hours, typically from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends in Luzon, and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Visayas and Mindanao.
During these hours, electricity demand is at its highest, the DOE said, adding that shifting energy intensive operations to off-peak hours can help ease the strain on the grid, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable power system.
“The summer months are characterized by higher energy demand, primarily driven by the increased use of cooling appliances such as air conditioners, electric fans and refrigerators. Without mindful consumption, this surge could strain the power grid, potentially leading to supply challenges and price fluctuations in the spot market,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.
For households, the DOE encourages the adoption of energy-saving measures such as the setting of air conditioners to 24-26°C, using electric fans to improve air circulation, maximizing natural ventilation when possible, and keeping appliances well-maintained for optimal efficiency.
For those planning to buy or replace air conditioners or refrigerators, the DOE recommends investing in inverter-type models that help prevent excessive energy consumption and reduces power fluctuations by adjusting the compressor speed based on cooling demand.
Commercial and industrial establishments are also urged to maintain their equipment to ensure optimal performance and adopt energy efficient technologies such as LED lighting and automated energy management systems.
They are also encouraged to implement demand-side management strategies, such as scheduling high-energy-consuming activities during off-peak hours and integrating renewable energy solutions like solar power to reduce dependence on the grid.
Government institutions, meanwhile, are urged to continue setting the thermostat of office air conditioning units at 24°C with operating hours limited to 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., maintain and clean air-conditioners, encourage employees to take the stairs especially when going one floor up or down, turn off lights and computers during lunch breaks, close blinds and curtains, and avoid, whenever possible, the use of high-energy consuming devices.
Based on the demand forecast for the year, the DOE projects a peak demand of 14,769 megawatt (MW) for Luzon, 3,111 MW for Visayas, and 2,789 MW for Mindanao.
The maximum adjusted available generating capacity, meanwhile, is 15,504 MW in Luzon, 3,040 MW in Visayas, and 3,314 MW in Mindanao as outlined in the Grid Operating Maintenance Program (GOMP) 2025-2027 and the committed power projects for 2025.
The DOE said new power projects under testing and commissioning will add 1,890 MW in Luzon and 193 MW in Visayas.
According to the department, the Luzon-Visayas and Visayas-Mindanao high-voltage direct current (HVDC) interconnections enhance supply availability and improve reserve margins by enabling capacity sharing of 250 MW and 450 MW, respectively.
The DOE said with the expected La Niña, rainfall will help moderate rising temperatures across the country.
It added that the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has assured that water releases will continue until June or July, which will be particularly beneficial for the Pantabangan and Magat dams, which serve both irrigation needs and the energy sector by helping meet Luzon’s power requirements.
“By making simple adjustments in daily routines, consumers can contribute to a more sustainable and efficient use of electricity, helping to prevent power interruptions and ensuring that energy resources remain sufficient throughout the summer season,” Lotilla said. (PNA)
