Friday, April 11, 2008 Construction of coal plant to start on July
DESPITE objections from some local environment advocates here, the construction of the coal-fired power plant in Concepcion, Iloilo will commence on July this year.
According to reports, there would be a groundbreaking of the first 100-megawatt coal plant before July.
The said power plant will be constructed in Sitio Puntales, Barangay Nipa, Concepcion and will occupy about 600 hectares.
To recall, there were previous disputes concerning the construction of a coal-fired power plant in Concepcion were some local environmentalists said it would be harmful to the surroundings and the local residents.
However, during previous public hearings, it was found out that the social acceptability of the project was high and therefore, passed the requirements of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) where an Environmental Compliance Certificate was issued last year to DMCI Holdings, the proponent of the projects.
Moreover, Iloilo Governor Niel Tupas Sr. has said that the power plant would be of great help in adding sufficient supply of electricity in the province of Iloilo, especially in the town of Concepcion.
With regards to the health and environmental issues, information revealed that the said coal-fired power plant, when finished, would be using high-tech facilities and equipments that would prevent any environmental hazards.
DCMI Holdings and the LGU of Concepcion signed a Memorandum of Understanding last 2004. (EC)
