(Taguig City) As we find brighter methods to ensure the quality, reliability and security of our electric power, the Department of Energy (DOE) issues Department Circular (DC) no 2004-08-0014 Enjoining all Electricity-Consuming Sectors to Implement Demand-Side Management Program and other Energy Conservation Measures”.

The circular, which was signed last August 11, 2014, enjoins all sectors to implement energy conservation measures to reduce the country’s demand for supply of electricity. The DC however excludes hospitals, military installations, and airports among other facilities of similar nature in fulfilling the provisions of the circular.

Under the DC, the Department’s Energy Utilization Management Bureau (EUMB) shall develop and implement various electricity demand-side management programs and projects nationwide including a system of incentives and penalties for same, after a series of public consultations.

EUMB Director Patrick T. Aquino noted that the measure includes government offices and government owned and controlled corporations.

"Energy conservation must be keenly practiced in order to secure a steady supply of energy in the country… as we develop awareness on energy efficiency and utilization must be prioritized to produce confident, well-informed and responsible electricity-consumers." said Dir. Aquino.

Furthermore, Dir. Aquino emphasized that government offices shall discontinue the use of their air-conditioning units if the weather permits. If used, the thermostat shall be set no lower that 25 degrees Celsius.

The EUMB, Electricity Power Industry Management Bureau (EPIMB) and the Office of the Secretary will closely monitor on a weekly basis the energy conservation measures of the sectors.