Senator Win Gatchalian called on households and businesses to exercise prudence in their respective energy consumption during the festive holiday season, as the country experiences a surge in electricity usage.

“Let National Energy Consciousness Month serve as a reminder for all of us, not only during this month but throughout the year, about the significance of responsible energy practices. These practices not only save money but also ensure sustainability and reduce the environmental impact associated with heightened energy consumption,” Gatchalian said.

The month of December has been declared National Energy Consciousness Month under Proclamation No. 1427, to create public awareness of the need for energy conservation.

According to Gatchalian, the advent of the El Nino phenomenon underscores the urgency to conserve energy as the weather aberration is expected to increase the country’s energy requirement.

“Because the El Nino phenomenon brings warmer than usual weather conditions, we can expect electricity consumption to rise substantially due to heightened demand. Thus, there is a need to ensure that the country has an ample supply of energy to meet the country’s electricity requirements,” Gatchalian said.

The conservation and efficient utilization of energy resources are stipulated in Republic Act 11285, known as the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act, authored by Gatchalian. According to the general provisions of the law, energy efficiency and conservation should be institutionalized through the formulation, development, and implementation of plans. These plans aim to secure the sufficiency and stability of energy supply, thereby mitigating the impact of high prices on local markets and protecting the environment. This initiative is in support of the economic and social development goals of the country.