ANGARA SEEKS ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION PROGRAM

As the holiday season winds to a close, Senator Edgardo J. Angara emphasized that Filipinos need to be more savvy with regards to energy usage and consumption. He also stated the need for a better energy program to benefit both the providers and the consumers.

"Now that we're facing a new year, it's time for the government to address the nation's energy-related concerns such as a possible shortage, high prices and the rising demand for energy that goes hand-in-hand with development," said Angara.

Angara authored Senate Bill No. 2027, or the Energy Efficiency and Conservation bill. This bill seeks to establish a framework for a more effective Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EEC) Program geared towards creating new technologies, encouraging collaborations among organizations and upholding existing laws on energy.

"It is essential for the country to attain self-sufficiency through maximizing its resources and maintaining their sustainability. We must answer the increasing energy demands of our nation without depleting our resources and adding to the burdens of the consumers," explained Angara.

The Department of Energy (DOE) shall be in charge of the overall EEC programs and activities. The DOE is also tasked to consult and coordinate with other government units, private companies and non-government organizations in the implementation of the new energy policies and disseminating the information to the public.

S.B. No. 2027, "An Act Promoting the Enhancement of Energy Efficiency and Conservation Through the Development of Energy Efficient Technologies, Strengthening Organizational Relationships and Reinforcement of Related Laws and Other Statutory Provisions on Energy", was filed by Angara early in the 15th Congress. It has been referred to the Committees on Energy and Ways and Means following the First Reading.