As temperatures rise with the onset of the summer season, the Department of Energy (DOE) reminds the public to adopt energy efficiency measures to manage electricity consumption and ensure the stability of the country's power supply.
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 P.M. Lotilla said.
To help maintain a stable and reliable energy supply, the DOE encourages all consumers—households, businesses, and government institutions—to adopt practical and effective demand-side management strategies without compromising productivity and operational performance. This includes refraining from or rescheduling high-energy-consuming activities during peak hours, typically from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM on weekends in Luzon, and from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Visayas and Mindanao --- where electricity demand is at its highest. By shifting energy-intensive operations to off-peak hours, consumers can help ease the strain on the grid, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable power system.
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. This technology helps prevent excessive energy consumption and reduces power fluctuations by adjusting the compressor speed based on cooling demand.
Commercial and industrial establishments, on the other hand, can improve energy efficiency by regularly maintaining their equipment to ensure optimal performance and adopting 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. Additionally, employees and facility managers play a crucial role by ensuring that unused equipment is turned off and that energy conservation protocols are consistently followed.
Meanwhile, government institutions are urged to continue setting the thermostat of office air-conditioning units at 24°C with operating hours limited to 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, regular maintenance and cleaning of air-conditioners, encouraging employees to take the stairs especially when going one floor up or down, turning off lights and computers during lunch breaks, closing blinds and curtains, and avoiding, whenever possible, the use of high-energy-consuming devices. These measures not only enhance grid stability but also reduce operational costs and support the country’s long-term energy security and sustainability goals.
Based on the demand forecast for the year, the DOE projects a peak demand of 14,769 MW for Luzon, 3,111 MW for Visayas, and 2,789 MW for Mindanao. The maximum adjusted available generating capacity 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 committed power projects for 2025. New power projects under testing and commissioning will add 1,890 MW in Luzon and 193 MW in Visayas.
Additionally, 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.
Meanwhile, with this year’s La Niña, rainfall is expected to help moderate rising temperatures across the country. The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has also assured the DOE that water releases will continue until June or July. This 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.
The DOE underscores the importance of collective action in energy conservation and sustainable consumption patterns. “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,” the Secretary said. ###