Mindanao needs mix of energy sources – industry official

Mindanao will have to allow coal-fired power plants in the region if locals want a steady supply of power, an industry official said Monday. Manuel Orig, first vice president for AboitizPower Corp. (APC) Mindanao, said on Monday that Mindanao’s hydroelectric power plants will not be able to sustain the region’s power demand especially because of droughts that have hampered their operations. APC has plans of building a coal-powered plant in the region. The P15 billion proposed plant in Davao will use clean coal technology while generating enough power for the region. Apprehensions people have on coal-powered energy are based on knowledge from 50 years ago, Orig said. “The reality is present clean coal technology is so much safer, healthier and environmentally protective. The coal-powered plants that people usually think of are the old ones from the 1950s and 1960s. Since then, clean coal technology has been developed to ensure that coal-powered plants have minimal impact on the environment. They are also much safer to operate and protect the health of surrounding communities," he said. Mindanao will need a mix of energy sources to satisfy its power needs, Orig added. Several sources of clean renewable energy are available, not all types of renewable energy are ideal for Mindanao. “The other types are too expensive at the moment. Hydropower and modern coal-powered plants are ideal for Mindanao at present because they are both safe, environment-friendly and protect the health of the community — and they are more affordable for consumers," he added. — BC/VS, GMA News