Lived Experiences of Energy Consumers at Panabo City, Philippines: A Phenomenology

Abstract

This study aims to explore the lived experiences of Panaboan energy consumers regarding energy policies. This qualitative study was conducted using the phenomenology method. The six participants were purposefully selected to participate in an in-depth face to face interview. The researchers obtained informed consent to assure the participants of their rights and privacy. The interview was audio recorded, and note-taking was present with the participants’ permission for documentation reasons. The data were collected and transcribed verbatim, and the responses that were compiled were thematically analysed. The results of the analysis of the data reveal four interesting themes: the experiences, challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights of the energy consumers. Through the participants’ shared stories from their experiences, it aids energy company stakeholders and the government’s awareness and understanding of why there is a need to improve energy policies. Finally, implications were indicated about what measurements were needed to formulate in order to address the energy policy concerns of consumers.