Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines, recently stressed that energy efficiency is no longer a choice but an imperative for businesses aiming to remain competitive and resilient.
“In the Philippines, we have seen an increase in the Green Impact Gap by 5 points since last year’s survey, reaching 46%. While 98% of companies have sustainability goals, only 52% are taking comprehensive steps to meet them,” said Catane. “We need to better understand how we can work together to close this gap. Energy efficiency is the most immediate and impactful solution businesses can adopt today.”
Schneider Electric pioneered the use of the Green Impact Gap to measure the misalignment between companies’ declared commitment towards their sustainability goals and the tangible actions to implement sustainable development.
Energy Efficiency: A Business Imperative
Schneider Electric reports that rising climate risks have led to unstable energy costs and supply chain disruptions, already impacting 41% of businesses in Asia. Moreover, artificial intelligence-driven computing demand is expected to increase data center power consumption by 4.2 times by 2028, further straining energy resources and amplifying the need for smarter energy management.
Schneider Electric’s insights align with data from the PE2. Alexander Ablaza, President of PE2, highlighted the financial and environmental benefits of energy efficiency, stating that businesses could save billions in operational costs while cutting carbon emissions. However, he noted that many companies are still in the process of prioritizing and mainstreaming sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives in their day-to-day 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 roadmap to sustainability 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.
Leaders from the energy, sustainability, and government sectors gathered at the Energy Efficiency Day 2025 conference at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, to drive action on accelerating energy efficiency in the Philippines
A Call to Action for Philippine Enterprises
Schneider Electric, alongside other representatives from both the public and private sector, 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 be the ones that thrive. The technology and expertise to drive energy efficiency already exist, and businesses must take decisive steps to turn 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 present during the conference highlighted that adopting these solutions is essential for long-term business sustainability and competitiveness in the Philippines.
