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[av_heading heading=’ Coal plant emissions below pollution limit, says ERC ‘ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=” subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=”]
BY GLENDA SOLOGASTOA
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ILOILO City – Coal-fired power plants contribute to pollution but in the case of the one operating in Concepcion, Iloilo the emissions were below pollution levels, according to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).
ERC is the government agency tasked to regulate the electric power industry and protect the interests of consumers.
“It is very well admitted that power plants, especially coal plants, sometimes add to pollution but in your case, you are below the pollution limit set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR),” said ERC commissioner Geronimo Sta. Ana, referring to Palm Concepcion Power Corp.’s coal-fired power plant in Barangay Nipa, Concepcion.
Sta. Ana visited Barangay Nipa on Aug. 18. The village has been hosting a 135-megawatt coal plant for a year now.
“The sulfur oxide, carbon monoxide and particulates are way below DENR’s limit,” said Sta. Ana.
DENR regional director Jim Sampulna said his agency has a real-time monitoring of the coal plant’s emissions.
He urged the coal plant’s management to constantly monitor the health of residents nearby.
“I also requested them to establish a clinic for residents as well as livelihood opportunities,” said Sampulna.
According to Sta. Ana, “a power plant in an area adds to the development of the community in terms of new houses, employment, new restaurants, eateries, boarding houses, etc.”/PN
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