2013 public utilities ordinance complied with
A city ordinance penned in 2013 for the establishment of a public utilities monitoring program for government offices, for the realization of at least ten (10) percent savings, is implemented.
This was the result of the assessment done by members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod legislative monitoring and evaluation group, after collation of the responses received from concerned offices.
In city ordinance no. 12, series of 2013, a TWG shall study incentives for the efficient use and reduction in water and electricity consumption in government offices and buildings, including schools where electricity and water bills are paid by the local government of Baguio.
In an earlier issued Department of Energy (DOE) directive, the Government Energy Management Program and other memorandum and orders from responsible national line agencies; at least 10 percent savings should be realized with the implementation of energy efficiency and conservation measures in all government entities.
For the evaluation, letters were sent to the officer-in charge of concerned offices; General Services, Engineering, Building and Architecture (CBAO), Environment and Parks Management, City Schools Division, Benguet Electric Cooperative, Baguio Water District; which they responded with recommendations and suggestions for energy-efficiency.
Among the suggestions received are the use of LED lighting fixtures, use of solar power and low wattage equipment including welding machines, electronic AVRs, LED monitors and high-end computers.
Water consumption could be minimized with the use of automatic shut-off faucet and eco-flush system on toilets and the use of gravity line system, it was also suggested. Collection of rainwater through harvesting facilities, quick response to reported leak/pipes, monitoring of pressure gauges to avoid pipeline burst, replacement of aged pipes were recommended by Engr. Salvador Royeca of the Baguio Water District (BWD) and Archt. Johnny Degay of the CBAO.
Royeca suggested that antiquated facilities be upgraded to increase capacity and efficiency while reducing operational expenses on power.
As to light and air flow, Royeca advocates larger windows, the elimination of air conditioning; and natural lighting, minimizing artificial illumination. These were among the energy and water conservation initiatives of the Baguio Water District. Unplugging of electrical devices and equipment after office hours, switching off of lights during lunch break and use of natural light for illumination of work areas is also recommended for additional energy savings.
According to Royeca, to raise awareness in water conservation, posts and flyers on handwashing tips are in BWD office lavatories and even in clients’ restrooms.
For city schools, then Schools Division Superintendent Marie Carolyn Verano noted that energy use declined due to distance learning starting in 2020. A commitment was also given by parents and teachers’ groups for the use of low-wattage lighting devices for the next school days.
For other city offices, a water efficiency program through a water audit shall be done to analyze cost, potential savings and payback period. A separate energy audit and commissioning for a process of verification if building systems are functioning as intended, and taking corrective action if needed, shall be done. According to the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) head Atty. Rhenan Diwas, subsequent actions shall be done, once the audits and reports are submitted.
An amendment of Ordinance 12, 2013 is also suggested to accommodate suggestions given. – Julie G. Fianza
