The Department of Energy said Monday the Earth Hour 2024 generated a significant increase in electricity savings of 132.11 megawatts (MW) for the Philippines in a show of solidarity for energy conservation and sustainability.
This represents an increase of 110.73 percent from last year’s savings of 62.69 MW.
“We are pleased to see such an impact in electricity savings during last Saturday’s Earth Hour. This only demonstrates our people’s dedication to safeguarding our planet. By coming together for this symbolic gesture, we send a powerful message of unity and commitment to sustainable practices,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.
Lotilla said energy conservation practice should go beyond the Earth Hour.
“As we enter the warm and dry season coupled with the El Niño phenomenon, let us sustain the momentum in order to prevent supply strain due to shifts in peak demand consumption brought about by increased cooling needs “ Lotilla said.
Individuals, communities and businesses rallied to demonstrate their commitment on Saturday, taking actions against climate change and promoting sustainable energy consumption.
The DOE said this year’s electricity savings were recorded at 73.86 MW from Luzon, 53.30 MW from Visayas and 4.95 MW from Mindanao.
It said the Earth Hour resulted in savings of 33.29 MW from Luzon, 20.50 MW from Visayas and 8.90 MW from Mindanao last year.
The agency said the achievement underscores the power of collective action in promoting energy efficiency and conservation.
By turning off non-essential lights and appliances for just one hour, individuals and businesses have made a tangible impact on reducing carbon emissions and conserving valuable resources.
Organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines, the DOE has been consistently at the forefront of the Earth Hour to encourage citizens, communities and businesses to take meaningful action against climate change.
