PROPOSED PUTTING UP OF GEOTHERMAL PLANTS WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF NEW ZEALAND AND ITS IMPACT ON: ENVIRONMENTAL, INDUSTRIAL

& SOCIAL ISSUES

Submitted by: Sy, Vinalyn A. BBL AC519N

PROPOSED PUTTING UP OF GEOTHERMAL PLANTS WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF NEW ZEALAND

1. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES With all sources of energy, developers and consumers must work to protect the environment. Geothermal Energy is an environmentally friendly energy resource provided it is properly developed and managed. The development of geothermal energy does not cause adverse impacts to the environment compared to other conventional energy sources. It may once in a while release some gases from deep down inside the earth, that may be slightly harmful, but these can be contained quite easily. Based on the experience from the Mt. Apo Geothermal Project, the emissions are easier to resolve quickly because the geothermal plants had technical and engineering solutions such as re-injection, air scrubbing or directional drilling. The impact of geothermal plants on the vegetation and wildlife of its surrounding regions have been carefully observed and documented over the years. Typically, before any new construction for geothermal facilities is done an extensive and independent review of the environmental conditions of the area should take place in order to provide an in-depth examination of the area in case there are any issues between the proposed facility and the community. Proponents of the project must also explain how they would resolve the environmental effects of the geothermal plant such as earth movements or volcanic eruptions. As in the case of Chevrons proposed geothermal plant in Kalinga, some fear that a dormant volcano may be revived similar to what happened in Mt

Pinatubo. The latter erupted and geothermal drilling operations since the late 80s to early 90s were some of the blamed triggers.

2. INDUSTRIAL ISSUES Although geothermal development cost is substantial, it has the advantage of being available most of the time because the plant will not be using oil fuels, and is spared from the misfortune of the numerous risks involved in the procurement of fuel, like: availability of supply, transport, and oil prices. If Philippines can continue to nurture the potential of the country's geothermal power, it could drastically lower its dependency to fuel. This would mean more savings from fuel expenses that are basically growing at an insanely fast pace. These cutbacks from the nation's annual budget could perhaps be used to some other noteworthy projects that would help propel Philippines to greater heights. Increasing the geothermal output in the Philippines contributes to the stability of the countrys power supply and infrastructure. Aside from meeting energy requirements, the project will help in generating jobs and increasing tax revenues. Being in the Ring of Fire, the Philippine archipelago hosts several volcanic areas where geothermal resources are remarkable thus development of these resources will also mean worth of investments for the country.

3. SOCIAL ISSUES Good communication about the companys activities and intentions is a major factor towards gaining public acceptance of the project. Let us learn from the Mt. Apo Project where unfortunately, for PNOC-EDC, accusations, rumors and misconceptions about the project spread like wildfire largely due to ignorance of geothermal operations, political maneuvering and government mistrust. So, before pushing on this planned project there must be public consultations for those living in the area, launch an information drive aimed at clearing the issues, elaborating on details and educating people about geothermal energy and its operations.

The benefits of development need to be shared with the immediate residents of the project area. People do not want to be kept in darkness; they also want their quality of life to improve. Relocation and livelihood assistance must be assured. The main favorable social aspects include but are not limited to stabilization of electricity in the Philippines, promotion of economic growth in the country, contribution to the Government revenue, increased employment, and increase in tourism and trade. The geothermal industry provides a wide range of employment opportunities from exploration, drilling, manufacture of turbines and operations.