Negros Occidental LNG Power Plant Project Scrapped Amid Environmental Concerns

Environmentalists in Negros Occidental, Philippines have scored another victory against 'dirty' energy after Reliance Energy Development, Inc. withdrew its application for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) power plant in San Carlos City.

The proposed 300 MW LNG power plant was set to be built by Reliance, a wholly-owned subsidiary of San Miguel Corporation, but faced strong opposition from local environmental groups led by Bishop Gerardo Alminaza and the Center for Energy, Ecology and Development (CEED).

Alminaza expressed gratitude for the withdrawal of the application, saying 'Thank you, Lord! Thank you, everyone who cares for our common home.' He emphasized the need for Negros Occidental to harness its renewable energy resources instead of relying on fossil fuels.

The bishop pointed out that Negros Oriental had already enacted a Renewable Energy Code, making it the first province in the country to do so. He urged local leaders to wean the province from 'costly, dirty power' and maximize sustainable energy.