Iloilo City solon favors coal-fired power plant
Rep. Raul Gonzalez Jr. is amenable to the idea of having a coal-fired power plant in Iloilo City provided it has a modern technology and will cause no harm in the environment.
His statement was related to the proposal to construct a coal-fired power plant inside the city in which Global Mirant is reportedly the first to express the desire to grab the opportunity.
The company has already sent punong barangays and members of the task force chaired by CENRO chief Noel Hechanova to Mabalacat, Pampanga to observe in the operation of their coal-fired power plant.
Gonzalez said there are already advanced technology related to the construction of the coal-fired power plant. Emissions coming from cars everyday has caused pollution in the environment and city officials could not just neglect the need to protect the environment.
He believed city officials will not ignore the fact of having a clean environment.
The power need of the city is foreseen to drastically increase in coming years especially with the development seen in the 54 hectares old Mandurriao airport. Though, Panay Electric Company Inc. also gets additional 15 megawatts power from National Power Corporation (NPC).
Gonzalez stressed that it does not matter what company will operate of a coal-fired power plant here. He has also information on the visit of several punong barangays and the task force to Pampanga.
When asked on whether there are lobby groups who asked for his intercession, Gonzalez replied "they know my stand." The solon said he will favor a company with new technology, design of coal-fired power plant and do not cause pollution in the environment.
Meanwhile, Mayor Jerry Treñas defended himself on reports that he is pushing for the coal-fired power plant. He said he is just asking for additional source of power for the city. "The city is also open if there is other renewable energy being proposed."
The city will also give even opportunity to companies that will offer renewable energy such as cheap windmill, solar or hydro power plant, said Treñas.