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Public urged to turn off aircon and lights
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Posted on Jun 15 2005
Saying that the Commonwealth is in the state of emergency, the Executive Branch called on the public yesterday to take deliberate measures to minimize the use of power.
Gov. Juan N. Babauta said during a Cabinet meeting yesterday that even though the administration has secured a short- and long-term solution to the fuel supply problem, government agencies and the rest of the community need to take part in saving energy.
These may include turning off airconditioning units for two hours a day and turning off lights when not needed.
Babauta said his office is drafting a memorandum for possible implementation of a specific energy-saving plan in government offices.
“Please conserve power in your offices. Turn off your aircon when possible or minimize aircon use,” Babauta told his Cabinet members.
He cited that in his recent trip to Japan, he noticed that even Japanese government offices are implementing an energy-saving program.
“They shut down their aircon. In the office we visited, it’s warm, almost hot… And people don’t wear suits. It’s all part of their cost-saving measures. It was an eye-opener,” said Babauta.
He also informed his Cabinet members that the privatization of the power plants is being actively pursued.
He said the Commonwealth Utilities Corp., which he currently runs following his emergency declaration last month, is set to award a privatization contract by end of July.
But before that, he said some power outages would occur because engines at the main power plant would be up for servicing or maintenance service.
“For 13 years, these engines have not been serviced. It’s a great risk we’re taking because these engines can break down anytime,” he said.
Full overhaul of the machines, he said, shall take place under a private company. In addition, he said that Power Plant II, which is adjacent to PP1 in Lower Base, is being repaired for “emergency backup.”
At the same time, he said the Isley Field power plant, is being maintained as emergency back up “to run the water pump to ensure continued water supply.”
“This is serious. We’re doing frantic calls. So please do your part. Do conserve power in your respective offices,” he said.
