Philippines' power consumption projected to surpass 400 terawatt-hours

Power consumption in the Philippines has dramatically increased from 26 terawatt-hours in 1990 to 101 terawatt-hours in 2023. As the population grows and life improves, energy needs continue to rise. Projections show that electricity demand could exceed 400 terawatt-hours by 2050. This increase in power usage reflects improved living standards. More communities are gaining access to electric grids. For example, Boracay had limited electricity in 1992, operating only from 6 PM to midnight. Today, the island enjoys 24-hour power. With better access, people can use various appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners. Research indicates that expanding electricity access significantly boosts income and spending for low-income families. Improved access can lead to nearly a 50% increase in income and over 52% in spending. As households and businesses consume more energy, efficient usage becomes crucial to reduce waste. Encouraging the use of energy-efficient appliances can lower costs and decrease pressure on energy systems. Recent advancements in kitchen appliances, especially refrigerators, show significant energy savings. Modern refrigerators are larger but use about 25% less electricity compared to older models. While energy-efficient devices become more affordable, there is a risk that increased efficiency could lead to greater overall consumption, known as the prosperity paradox. Consumers might buy additional appliances because they are cheaper to run. For example, LED lighting has expanded from homes to large billboards, dramatically changing urban landscapes. To accelerate the transition to more efficient energy use, both policy and innovation are important. However, greater accessibility may lead to unintended consequences, such as increased consumption. The journey toward energy efficiency involves choices from both producers and consumers to ensure shared prosperity for society as a whole.