Conserve energy, users told

The Department of Energy called on consumers to keep using energy wisely as the Luzon grid has recorded a new peak in electricity demand for 2015.

According to DOE data, Luzon recorded its highest demand this year on April 20 at 8,727 megawatts (MW). Available capacity was at 9,548 MW, leaving reserves of 821 MW.

Based on DOE projections, demand will increase further in the coming months, particularly in May, when demand usually reaches its annual peak, the DOE said.

The second and third weeks of May are normally the hottest in the year. Demand is estimated to peak at 9,100 MW to 9,400 MW in May.

The DOE thus called on consumers to practice energy efficiency at home and at work.

Toning down cooling systems to 25 degrees Celsius, particularly during the weekday peak hours (10 a.m.-2 p.m.) in Luzon, will help prevent acute demand spikes that could threaten energy reserves, the DOE said.

If done collectively by all establishments and homes, this practice can significantly lower energy demand, thus reducing the possibility of a power shortage, the DOE said.

Meanwhile, the Malampaya turnaround has been completed without major hitches in the Luzon grid, but authorities are still watching power demand.

The Malampaya gas platform off Palawan was on temporary shutdown from March 15 to April 14 while operators installed a new platform to maintain its output until 2024.

This temporary shutdown affected gas-fired power plants that collectively supply about 40 percent of Luzon’s electricity.

The affected gas-fired power plants had to shift to more expensive liquid fuel, raising power rates for March and April, but the Luzon grid was otherwise spared from major hitches such as massive power outages due to brief periods of lower-than-expected temperature, as well as preparations by energy stakeholders.