As the summer approaches and temperatures rise, how can we stay comfortable while saving energy? The Ministry of Economic Affairs of the Republic of China is promoting the “Energy Saving Month – Reduce 1 Degree of Electricity” campaign, calling on people to clean air conditioner filters, use high-efficiency LED lights, and make small daily life changes to collectively challenge households to save 1 degree of electricity per day.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs of the Republic of China stated that the goal of promoting the “Energy Saving Month – Reduce 1 Degree of Electricity” campaign is to achieve energy savings through minor changes without affecting people’s quality of life. Many small aspects in daily life are often overlooked, such as regularly cleaning air conditioner filters. By raising the air conditioning temperature setting by 1°C, nearly 1 degree of electricity can be saved each day. Installing timers on devices like storage water heaters to shut them off when not in use can also save 1 degree of electricity. Additionally, managing power sources with switchable extension cords and turning off unused electrical appliances when going out can contribute to significant energy savings by eliminating unnecessary waste.
To convey the idea that small changes in electricity usage habits can lead to energy savings, the Ministry of Economic Affairs collaborated with miniature artist Zheng Hongzhan this year to produce promotional videos combining energy-saving concepts with art. Through the filming techniques of miniature models, energy-saving concepts and methods are effectively communicated.
In order to inform the public on how to save energy at home, a dedicated webpage for the “Energy Saving Month – Reduce 1 Degree of Electricity” campaign has been established by the ministry. It provides information on household electricity usage, tutorials on cleaning household appliances, tips for saving electricity, educational cards, and energy-saving videos to help people easily grasp energy-saving information. It is also recommended that individuals start by reviewing their electricity bills, taking inventory of household appliances, and reviewing electricity usage habits to identify ways for improvement, such as replacing old appliances with energy-efficient ones.
Moreover, starting in June, the activities of the “Energy Saving Month – Reduce 1 Degree of Electricity” campaign include conducting energy education weeks in schools by integrating educational resources. Students are guided through energy learning sheets to understand correct electricity usage and energy-saving information. During June to August, weekly energy-saving workshops are organized by local energy-saving volunteers, where they share energy-saving and carbon reduction concepts along with tips and tricks. The campaign also calls for benchmark industries in energy-saving to conduct six energy-saving observation seminars to share energy-saving measures and conduct on-site visits to accelerate the implementation of energy-saving practices in industrial units.
To encourage public participation, starting in June, the Ministry of Economic Affairs has launched the “Energy Saving Month – Reduce 1 Degree of Electricity” campaign on the Energy Park Facebook fan page. By completing designated energy-saving tasks, participants have the chance to win prizes such as convenience store vouchers, ice cream or coffee coupons, with over 300 prizes in total. “Let’s start making changes from small steps this summer and effortlessly save 1 degree of electricity together!”
Lastly, the Ministry of Economic Affairs emphasizes that in line with the 2050 net-zero transition policy, the government will continue to promote various energy-saving activities to guide the public to start from daily life. They will also collaborate with local governments to implement the “County and City Energy Saving Partner Plan,” promoting volunteer training, outreach activities, and other related works. Through collective efforts, it is hoped that energy-saving and carbon reduction targets will be achieved, contributing to sustainable efforts for the earth.
For more details on the “Energy Saving Month – Reduce 1 Degree of Electricity” activities and registration information for benchmark industry observation seminars, please visit the Energy Park website at https://www.energypark.org.tw/.