Comprehensive Energy Efficiency and Conservation Bill

The Department of Energy (DOE) is pushing for the passage of the Comprehensive Energy Efficiency and Conservation Bill as they recognize the need to strengthen the policy and framework that will institutionalize efficient use of energy and conservation in the country.

DOE Undersecretary for Energy Efficiency Loreta Ayson said a study on this proposal has been completed with the help of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) and the stakeholders' inputs in partnership with the Development Academy of the Philippines.

The contributions served as basis in crafting the bill.

DOF-Visayas Director Antonio Labios said the distribution of millions of energy-efficient compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) by districts to eradicate incandescent bulbs is also part of the energy efficiency and conservation program of the government.

If approved into law, Ayson said, this can help the power consumers in lowering their power consumption, thus decreasing their electricity bill even if the rates go up.

Ayson also recognized the complaint of the workers especially from the Trade Union Congress Party-List that the high cost of electricity has wiped out the small increase in the minimum wage the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) allowed last year.

Ayson said the bill has been endorsed to the House committee on energy, which is headed by Rep. Henedina Razon-Abad and Rep. Maria Evita Arago and by Sen. Teofisto Guingona lll in the Senate.

Ayson said while an Enercon Law is not yet in place, the challenge to government is how to expand the engagement of the private sector, such as the industrial and commercial enterprises.

She said that for 29 years, the DOE, through the Don Emilio Abello Energy Efficiency Awards, has encouraged the private sector to participate in its initiatives, by giving recognition to firms that have achieved significant reduction in their energy consumption through energy conservation technologies and measures.

She said that last year, 59 industrial and commercial establishments, 33 energy managers and two power generating plants received honors for their significant contribution to the government's energy efficiency and conservation initiatives.