THE Department of Energy (DoE) said the Philippines was able to conserve a total of 62.69 megawatts (MW) during the Earth HOUR 2023 HELD LAST SATURDAY.

According to the DoE, Luzon tallied the most energy savings with 33.29 MW during the onehour switch-off.

Mindanao came in next with 20.5 MW and Visayas with 8.9 MW.

However, this year’s Earth Hour energy savings slightly declined from 65.32 MW in 2022.

During the annual Earth Hour, Filipino households and companies are asked to turn their nonessential lights off between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

This is being done annually to mitigate the effects of climate change.

According to the DoE, the electricity demand reduction was “a testament that collectively, we could generate a great impact on our daily energy consumption.”

Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla, for his part, said the public should consistently practice energy conservation measures.

“This also illustrates how purposeful behavior could achieve something big and worthy. Imagine when individuals, businesses, government and communities unite not only during Earth Hour but in making energy conservation their everyday way of life, the overall impact would be even much bigger,” said Lotilla in a statement.

He also urged Filipinos to continue energy efficiency and conservation efforts to help in managing energy demand, especially during dry season when power supply often becomes critical.

“Let us help sustain the momentum by simply consistently practicing energy conservation measures at home, offices, communities and businesses from switching off nonessential lights to choosing more energy efficient appliances, equipment and machines. These are simple yet valuable actions that we can do easily not only for our planet, but more especially during periods of high demand such as this summer season,” he added.