The National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) Central Office received full marks on its energy compliance after the Department of Energy (DOE) conducted an energy audit on 3 August 2022.

The spot check was conducted by Mr. Simon S. Leonor of the Energy Utilization Management Bureau of the DOE. The audit aims to validate various government agencies’ compliance on the implementation of energy efficiency and conservation programs, and the strict observance of the Government Energy Efficiency Program (GEMP) guidelines.

Included in the energy audit is the usage of air conditioning units. Under the checklist, air conditioning units should be set at 24° C and may only operate for eight hours straight. The auditor also inspected if the ambient temperature is maintained by keeping doors of air conditioned spaces closed.

The auditor validated the Board’s compliance on the designation of energy efficiency and conservation officer and/or focal person as well as the regular submission of electricity and fuel consumption

DOE also measured NCMB’s diligence in observing fuel saving measures in using government service vehicles. The auditor inspected NCMB Central Office’s records pertaining to the preventive maintenance done on the service vehicles.

Observance of other energy conservation practices were also checked such as turning off the lights during lunch breaks, except in offices where “No Noon Break” Policy is implemented, and after office hours and whenever not in use.

The strict implementation of the GEMP will help mitigate the adverse impacts of the Russia-Ukraine crisis and to ensure ample electricity during the hot dry season.

The IAEECC was created by virtue of Section 9 of Republic Act No. 11285 of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act. It was formally organized with the issuance of Department Order No. DO2020-01-001 entitled “Organizing the Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee” on 9 January 2020. It is mandated to evaluate and approve government energy efficiency projects, and to provide strategic direction in the implementation of the Government Energy Efficiency Program (GEMP).

END/ Gillian Pearl L. Guerrero