Amman, Oct 28 (Petra) - The Lower House's Energy and Mineral Resources Committee on Wednesday called for enhancing the efficiency of energy use and reducing its waste, given the repercussions of regional turmoil on global energy markets, the costs of supplies, and the prices of oil derivatives.

Energy efficiency is a national responsibility tied to national and economic security, said MP Ayman Abu Haniyeh, head of the committee.

He said improving consumption patterns will ease the burdens on citizens, the national economy, and the treasury, and boosts the Kingdom’s ability to deal with regional and international variables.

Abu Haniyeh said the domestic sector accounts for about 46 percent of the total energy consumption in the Kingdom, which highlights the importance of developing programs targeting the optimal use of resources and raising the efficiency of appliances, buildings and establishments.

He urged citizens to adopt simple daily practices, such as turning off unused appliances and lighting, setting air conditioning and heating devices to moderate levels, using energy-saving lamps and taking advantage of daylight.

The MP also called on industrial and commercial establishments, hotels, and government institutions to conduct periodic audits of energy consumption, update high-consumption equipment, and implement modern control systems, to help reduce operational costs and lift performance.

Committee members were unanimous on the need to enhance national awareness of energy efficiency, intensify efforts to protect national resources, reduce costs, and enhance the security of energy supply.

//Petra//SS