Incheon Urges Public to Join Energy Saving Efforts Amid Resource Crisis

Incheon Calls for Public Energy Saving Amid Resource Security Alert

Incheon Metropolitan City is urging its residents to actively participate in energy-saving initiatives, following the declaration of a “Caution” level resource security crisis alert by the Korean government. The nationwide appeal comes in response to ongoing instability in the Middle East, which has elevated concerns over global energy supply and security.

The city’s Energy Policy Division announced “National Action Guidelines for Energy Saving Practice,” a comprehensive set of recommendations designed to help the country overcome the current energy challenges. These guidelines encourage citizens to adopt more conservative energy habits in their daily lives, encompassing transportation, workplaces, and homes.

For transportation, residents are encouraged to join the “Passenger Vehicle 5-Day Rotation System,” a voluntary program common in Korea where car usage is restricted on specific days based on license plate numbers, typically aimed at managing traffic and reducing emissions. Other recommendations include opting for public transportation, practicing eco-friendly driving habits, and choosing to walk or cycle for short distances.

In offices and workplaces, the guidelines emphasize maintaining optimal indoor temperatures, recommending heating not exceed 20℃ and cooling not drop below 26℃. Turning off unnecessary lighting is also highlighted. For households, residents are advised to efficiently use and save on home appliances during evening peak hours (5 PM to 8 PM), charge electric vehicles and mobile phones during off-peak daytime hours, invest in high-efficiency appliances, switch to LED lighting, and use heavy-duty appliances like washing machines and vacuum cleaners primarily on weekends. Citizens can also explore national incentives like the residential energy cashback and city gas saving cashback programs.

An official from the Incheon Energy Policy Division stated, “Overcoming this resource security crisis requires a collective effort from all citizens. By embracing these simple yet impactful energy-saving practices, we can contribute significantly to national energy resilience and security.”

Source: 인천광역시 — Original Notice (Korean)