QC council wants solar-powered air conditioners

MANILA, Philippines - Amid reports of a possible energy crisis next year, the Quezon City council has approved a resolution asking Mayor Herbert Bautista to consider the use of solar-powered air conditioners at the city hall.

Authored by second district Councilor Ramon Medalla, the measure said that the use of solar-powered air conditioners will lower power consumption and lessen the city’s utility expenditures.

According to the councilor, price hikes and blackouts are the common problems when there is a shortage in power distribution, especially during dry season when the water level is low and could not support hydro-electric generating systems that supply the power needs of Luzon. 

The council said it is optimistic that the use of solar-powered air conditioners will reduce the city’s greenhouse gas discharge and will save the city hall some 30 to 50 percent in its electrical bill. 

The measure stated solar air conditioners involve the use of solar panels for energy.

The council cited Republic Act 9513, or the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, which called for the development of renewable energy resources like solar power to trim down the country’s dependence on fossil fuel and to tap clean sources of energy.