Government offices have been ordered to tighten energy-saving measures, including setting air-conditioning units to no lower than 24°C, cutting electricity use, and fully complying with the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP), amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, chair of the Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee, directed agencies to strictly enforce GEMP guidelines and achieve at least 10% energy savings, citing risks to power supply during the hot dry season.
The advisory, issued upon the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., outlines immediate steps to be reported through the GEMP Online System.
Required measures include activating sleep mode on office equipment; keeping AC thermostats at 24°C or higher and doors closed; adopting flexible work arrangements or eight straight working hours where feasible; switching off lights and computers during breaks and after office hours; shifting to LED lights, inverter ACs, and energy-efficient appliances; and using renewable energy like solar PV systems when possible.
Agencies must also designate Energy Efficiency and Conservation officers, submit monthly electricity and fuel reports, inventory all energy-consuming equipment, and prepare their Energy Efficiency and Conservation Plan (EECP) or Local EECP.
Garin warned that the DOE will closely monitor compliance, with random spot checks and energy ratings by its Energy Audit Team.IMT
