Sunday, January 20, 2008 Braga cites need to hold energy gab
THE need to hold an Energy Summit is made more crucial with the power shortage expected to hit Mindanao in 2010.
According to Councilor Pilar Braga, chairman of the committee on energy and transportation, the summit is an essential venue where leaders and stakeholders can discuss viable solutions that can be swiftly implemented to prevent the impending shortage two to three years from now.
"Ngayon na dapat kumilos (Now is the time to move) while there is still time to put-up the necessary infrastructure," Braga said.
The comprehensive implementation of the Biofuel Act is the most viable solutions that Braga said would be a big help.
"The government should consider the use of e-vehicles for government-owned vehicles and also bicycles," Braga said.
Braga also urges the public to conserve energy through small yet practical efforts daily.
"Let's start with our attitude and lifestyle. From wasteful living, lets aim for an alternative lifestyle that would be contributory to energy conservation," Braga said.
Councilor Peter Laviña, on the other hand, is optimistic that Davao City would not be very much affected by the shortage.
"We're glad that Hedcor is already working on the Sibulan Hydroelectric Plant and Transco on the Maramag-Bunawan transmission. These should guarantee stable supply in Davao," Laviña said.
He said the use of alternatives sources like mini-hydro solar and biomass should also be encouraged.
"Household and community-based initiatives to utilize these alternatives sources especially in off-grid areas may be subsidized by the local government to make sure we will not be so affected by the shortage," Laviña said. (GLP)
