PEOPLE must change the way they use water and electricity to mitigate the crippling effects of climate change.

The effects of climate change are increasingly evident, with droughts and record-high temperatures in recent years, National Water Services Commission (SPAN) chairman Charles Santiago said.

He hoped people would recognise that water is becoming a precious commodity and that it is unacceptable to waste it.

“Treated water should be used solely for bathing, cooking, drinking, and healthcare. Other sectors, such as industrial, service, and commercial, must consider using lower-grade water, such as recycled or repurposed water,” he said.”

“Past campaigns to conserve water have largely been ignored. Water authorities struggle to spread this message as they focus on ensuring supply and finding new catchment areas.”

Santiago suggested that households install rainwater harvesting devices, adding that SPAN is available for technical advice.

In the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, rainwater is harvested for industrial use. Rainwater is also used to wash dishes, homes, and laundry, while treated water is reserved for drinking, bathing, and cooking.

“The faster such a culture develops, the better it is for the country as water will soon be a top security concern,” Santiago said.

He also urged industries to harvest rainwater for use in restrooms and sewerage and waste discharge.

“We must also understand the concept of zero waste; water discharged as effluent can be recycled and reused within the same premises, especially commercial, industrial, construction, and other economic sectors,” he said.

Water resources are becoming scarce around the world due to the three main threats of shifting weather patterns because of global warming, leading to prolonged droughts; mass pollution; and a growing population.

There will be no respite unless aggressive measures are introduced to make people rethink their water use, Santiago said.

Smart electricity use

During the current heatwave, electricity use has spiked. While this may bring more revenue to Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB), the company is concerned about the impact of climate change on its operations.

Higher electricity consumption also leads to a higher carbon footprint.

TNB Penang general manager Ismail Lathifi Teh, power generation managing director Muhamad Nazri Pazli, and state retail division head Norhizami Abu Hasan recently discussed power savings with the media.

Ismail said electricity bills have risen significantly across all sectors because to the heatwave. While TNB may benefit financially from this, it is detrimental to the environment as more power generation leads to more carbon emissions.

As TNB focuses on green energy and reducing its carbon footprint, it advocates for energy conservation steps. TNB plans to expand its community outreach on how to save costs through reduced energy dependence.

The foremost step is for consumers to purchase household products with four- to five-star energy ratings.

“They may cost slightly more, but with rebates and electricity cost savings, it may be worth it,” said Norhizami.

He recommended efficient use of air conditioners.

“Air conditioners do not function best at the lowest temperature setting, which makes the compressor work harder. It’s better to set a moderate temperature that is cooler than the outside climate and maintain it.”

Norhizami suggested cutting down the use air conditioners in favour of energy-saving fans. Another alternative is for homeowners to install solar power panels, for which TNB offers rebates and technical support.

In Penang, an acute shortage of land makes it difficult to establish solar panel farms. However, TNB is building such farms on the mainland in Seberang Prai and in Perlis and Kedah, which have large tracts of flat land.

The scorching weather, attributed to the El Niño phenomenon, is expected to persist into June, although the month has typically seen rainfall in the past. – June 6, 2024.