Business groups support nuclear energy option to cut power rates
By Othel V. Campos – March 6, 2024, 8:05 pm
from manilastandard.net
ARTA Secretary Ernesto Perez
Business groups and energy stakeholders expressed support for exploring nuclear technology as an alternative energy source to address the country’s high power rates.
Business leaders offered positive feedback on the proposed use of nuclear power during a forum hosted by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Tuesday.
“With our administration’s ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ banner, our attention is very much open for advanced innovations, such as this [nuclear technology], that would help boost our country’s economic growth and the lives of the Filipino people,” said ARTA secretary Ernesto Perez.
He said energy stakeholders were looking forward to the potential benefits of nuclear technology for both the industrial and commercial sectors.
Representatives from major energy companies, including Aboitiz Power Corp., San Miguel Global Power, Meralco Industrial Engineering Services Corp. and Kepco KPS Carabao Corp., participated in the forum alongside other power groups and government agencies.
ARTA proposed developing a joint memorandum circular (JMC) or an executive order (EO) to streamline the permitting process for nuclear projects.
ARTA sought recommendations from the Renewable Energy Management Bureau (REMB), Board of Investments (BOI) and Developers of Renewable Energy for AdvanceMent (DREAM) at the next energy sector meeting scheduled in late March 2024.
“With a whole-of-nation approach, we will continue coordinating with both the public and the private sector stakeholders to ensure energy security nationwide. This transformative collaboration that we are doing in the energy sector aligns perfectly with our vision under our Bagong Pilipinas banner,” Perez said.
The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) presented various applications of nuclear energy beyond power generation, including uses in agriculture, medicine, security, geology, environment, particle physics and life sciences.
PNRI said nuclear technology could improve the shelf life of fruits and vegetables for export, potentially benefiting the country’s food security and economic standing in the face of global inflation.
“In our stride towards replacing red tape with a red carpet for investments and economic growth, adapting such innovation can be a very bold and progressive move,” Perez said.
ARTA and industry stakeholders plan to hold another meeting with PNRI and visit government nuclear facilities to discuss potential collaborations on developing and incorporating the technology into various sectors.
