Unlocking the Human Dimension of Energy Efficiency and Conservation: The Case of Tourist Accommodation Providers in Coron, Palawan in the Philippines

In the light of mounting concerns related to climate change, energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) presents a cost-effective strategy that can propel the Philippines’ energy-intensive tourist accommodations sector towards sustainability. This warrants the examination of barriers that prevent capture of EEC potentials and the identification of factors that will drive adoption at a socially- optimal rate.

Coron, Palawan's small and medium enterprise (SME) dominated hospitality sector was studied using post-only correlation design. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare perceptions, practices, energy awareness, and willingness to participate in EEC between members of the Zero Carbon Resorts project; a voluntary program aiding tourism SMEs reduce energy consumption (Case Group), and non-members (Control Group). Pearson Chi-Squared test was employed to determine factor association with membership in the program, while Ordered Logistic Regression was used to determine participation drivers in EEC.

Research revealed vast uncaptured energy-savings potential compounded with the absence of EEC laws targeting this sector. The study found that: (1) provisions for amenities, facilities and support services for guests; (2) high dependence on the grid and the prevalent use of generators; (3) low market penetration of renewable energy (RE) and energy-efficient technology; and (4) lack of knowledgeable personnel within organizations contribute to high energy expense within this sector. Despite having very little difference in perceived energy savings, energy awareness and self-reported energy-saving practices vary widely. Policy and institutional changes are required to address: (1) perceived high cost of energy-efficient technology and knowledge gap, (2) put in place necessary regulations; and (3) incentivize EEC to increase its adoption.