Thursday, July 24, 2008 DOE told to promote Cordi micro-hydro power potentials
THE Cordillera’s potential for micro-hydro development should be studied well for the possibility of attracting investors to the region.
Mountain Province Governor Maximo Dalog said the Department of Energy (DOE) should advocate the potentials of the Cordillera for micro-hydro development, which could become one of the alternatives for cheaper power cost.
He said the DOE should take the lead in presenting the region's potentials for micro-hydro, now being eyed to supply the demands of power during the peak hours of electricity use.
The region's water resources are among its assets, which could be tapped to supply the power demands of the country.
Energy officials, during a recent consultation with Cordillera leaders in Baguio City, said the existing micro-hydro systems could be used as the picking plants for power when the demand is high.
International power generating companies are now looking for hydro plants in developing countries, like the Philippines, as their sources of clean energy, which could also earn them more "green points" that could translate into additional profits.
The use of renewable energy sources are becoming a major investments for international power generators, as this would bring them carbon credits which could pour in more income for them through the Clean Development Mechanism Program.
Under the plan, companies which substitute renewable energy for coal and fuel earn credits saleable at US$15 for every ton of reduced carbon use. (JC)
