As the saying goes, start them young.
The Department of Energy (DOE) taught "energy accounting 101" recently to an estimated 200 students from Central Luzon State University (CLSU).
The virtual lesson, conducted last Thursday, March 25, was part of the DOE's advocacy to establish a strong energy knowledge base among the Filipino youth.
"Exposing today's youth to energy concepts, including energy consumption habits and projections on future energy requirements is the first step towards molding empowered energy consumers," Energy Sec. Alfonso G. Cusi said in a statement Tuesday, March 30.
The virtual Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign was titled “Energy Accounting 101 for Stakeholders”. Students from various levels and courses at CLSU as well as faculty members took part in the virtual event.
In his opening remarks, DOE Spokesperson and EPPB Supervising Usec. Felix William B. Fuentebella emphasized the importance of an energy portfolio that is safe, sustainable, and secure in meeting the country's future energy needs.
During the IEC, members of the DOE-Energy Policy and Planning Bureau (EPPB) and Energy Utilization Management Bureau (EUMB) delivered presentations on the following topics: 1. basic energy concepts and the role of the Philippine government in the energy sector, including the DOE's mandate, policies, and programs; sources of energy; 2. an overview of the energy accounting process, comprised of the collection, production, and dissemination of energy data and information to support the country's energy policy formulation, planning, and decision-making strategies; and 3. the country's programs, policies, and laws on energy efficiency and conservation, including energy-saving measures for major household appliances.
DOE-EPPB Dir. Jesus T. Tamang concluded the event by discussing the importance of gaining a deeper understanding of countries' respective situations and available energy resources in energy planning.