DOE recognizes outstanding contributions to energy efficiency in record-breaking EEE Awards

The Energy Efficiency Excellence (EEE) Awards uphold its tradition of honoring public and private institutions for their exemplary performance in optimizing energy management and integrating energy efficiency into their operations. This year, a record breaking entries of five-hundred sixty-two (562) from entities covering the industrial, commercial and government establishments were received, reflecting heightened awareness of energy efficiency as a crucial element of sustainable development. Eighteen (18) outstanding entities were honored today, 12 December 2024, for their exceptional contributions. 

Every December coinciding with the commemoration of the National Energy Consciousness Month, the Department of Energy (DOE) acknowledges organizations that champion energy efficiency and sustainability practices. Formerly known as the Don Emilio Abello Awards, named after the Father of the Energy Conservation Movement in the Philippines, this initiative dates back to 1970’s, during the oil crisis following the OPEC oil embargo. Don Emilio Abello, then Chairman and CEO of Meralco, spearheaded efforts to promote energy conservation, which remain relevant today.

This year’s awardees collectively achieved energy savings of 15 gigawatt-hours, resulting in cost reductions of more than PhP172 million and avoidance of 10,000 tons of CO₂ emissions. The private sector led the way with the highest number of entries across categories.

Notable Awardees in the Industries and Buildings Category:
• Large Buildings: Philippine Stock Exchange, SM Center Pulilan, and Marquee Mall
• Small and Medium Buildings: Abreeza Corporate Center and BPI Cebu Corporate Center
• Small and Medium Industries: Tagum Water Company Inc.
• New and Existing Buildings: SM City Tuguegarao and SM City Tanza
• Tropical Buildings: Alabang Town Center
• Large Green Buildings: Alveo Financial Tower and Solaris One

Special Awards for Innovative Contributions: 
• Globe Telecom Inc., Valero Telepark, for its adoption of 100% renewable energy and the use of Artificial Intelligence to optimize compressor energy management
• San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corporation – SMY Glass Plant, for reducing energy usage through the optimization of its compressed air system, a critical utility in industrial operations

Public Sector Leadership Recognition:
Local government units (LGUs) also stood out this year, with the City Government of Batangas and the Municipality of Bacnotan, La Union receiving awards in the LGU category for 1st to 3rd Class City and Municipality, respectively.

In the National Government Agency category:
• Department of Budget and Management (Central Office) and the Presidential Management Staff were recognized for energy-efficient practices in large buildings.
• Department of Education Schools Division Office in Nueva Vizcaya earned honors for energy efficiency in the small and medium buildings category.

Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla lauded the record-breaking participation, emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency in addressing key national challenges.

“Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of our strategy to address the rising cost of energy, combat climate change, and strengthen our energy security. This year’s record-breaking participation in the EEE Awards affirms that Filipinos are ready to embrace energy-saving innovations and practices. Let us continue the momentum to achieve the Philippine Energy Plan's goal of 10 percent energy savings in oil and electricity consumption by 2040 to 2050,” Secretary Lotilla said.

The Department of Energy is committed to advancing these objectives, with ongoing efforts to enhance policies, including the reclassification of Designated Establishments and the authorization of energy auditors under the Government Energy Management Program. The Awards will continue to serve as a platform to inspire organizations to adopt conservation practices and promote sustainability as a way of life, reinforcing the country’s leadership in energy efficiency and climate resilience. ###