As climate change and rising energy costs continue to impact businesses, Schneider Electric, a leader in digital energy management and automation, has reinforced its call for Philippine businesses to prioritize energy efficiency as the fastest and most cost-effective path to sustainability.
Ireen Catane, country president of Schneider Electric Philippines, recently emphasized that energy efficiency is no longer optional but essential for businesses aiming to remain competitive and resilient.
“In the Philippines, the Green Impact Gap has increased by five points since last year’s survey, now reaching 46%. While 98% of companies have sustainability goals, only 52% are taking comprehensive steps to achieve them,” said Catane. “We need to better understand how we can collaborate to close this gap. Energy efficiency is the most immediate and impactful solution businesses can implement today.”
Schneider Electric pioneered the use of the Green Impact Gap to measure the discrepancy between companies’ stated sustainability commitments and their tangible actions towards sustainable development.
Energy efficiency as a business imperative
Schneider Electric reports that escalating climate risks have led to unstable energy costs and supply chain disruptions, already affecting 41% of businesses in Asia. Furthermore, artificial intelligence-driven computing demand is projected to increase data center power consumption by 4.2 times by 2028, further straining energy resources and highlighting the need for smarter energy management.
Schneider Electric’s insights align with data from PE2. Alexander Ablaza, President of PE2, underscored the financial and environmental benefits of energy efficiency, noting that businesses could save billions in operational costs while reducing carbon emissions. However, he observed that many companies are still in the process of prioritizing and integrating sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives into their daily operations.
At the same conference, Schneider Electric outlined a three-step approach for businesses to effectively close the Green Impact Gap: Strategize, Digitize, and Decarbonize.
- Strategize: Develop a clear sustainability roadmap with measurable targets.
- Digitize: Leverage data and automation to monitor and optimize energy consumption.
- Decarbonize: Implement solutions that drive emissions reduction and long-term energy savings.
By adopting these steps, businesses can unlock financial and operational benefits. Schneider Electric’s research found that energy-efficient buildings not only reduce operational costs but also enhance property value and business reputation. Moreover, 42% of Philippine-based companies surveyed recognized new business opportunities arising from improved energy efficiency.
READ ALSO: Schneider Electric intros decarbonization roadmap for PH manufacturing
A call to action
Schneider Electric, alongside representatives from both the public and private sectors, reaffirmed its commitment to helping businesses navigate the energy transition through advanced solutions and strategic partnerships. “The path to sustainability is clear. Companies that act now will thrive. The technology and expertise to drive energy efficiency already exist, and businesses must take decisive steps to translate commitments into real impact,” Catane emphasized.
With regulatory frameworks like the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act in place, the private sector faces increasing pressure to implement energy efficiency measures. Schneider Electric and industry leaders at the conference highlighted that adopting these solutions is essential for long-term business sustainability and competitiveness in the Philippines.
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