Lately, there has been a lot of discussion about the Philippines’ energy security. This is understandable given the country’s impressive economic growth rate. As Cebu comes under the spotlight as a vital component in the nation’s drive to become an upper middle-income economy, it begs the question: is Cebu truly ready to transition to 100% renewable energy? Dana Gabrielle B. Tautho, a PRC-licensed Geologist and Environmental Planner, investigates.
A Complex Undertaking
Tautho considers that similar to other fast-progressing cities worldwide, Cebu is still working to diversify its energy sources, aiming to rely less on coal and natural gas for electricity generation. Though progress has been made in incorporating renewable options like solar and biomass, achieving a fully renewable energy system remains a complex undertaking.
She points out that increasing the use of renewable energy depends on various factors. These include technological advancements, supportive policies, substantial investments, and the readiness of the transmission grid.
While initial infrastructure costs may present challenges, the long-term benefits of transitioning to renewable energy are promising. Residents could potentially enjoy reduced energy expenses, as renewable sources are derived from local natural resources, shielding them from global oil price fluctuations. This transition could also enhance energy stability and contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing carbon emissions.
The timeline for Cebu’s complete shift to 100% renewable energy is uncertain and may span several decades, even as it faces the pressing challenge of energy shortages.
For context, the Philippine Energy Plan’s Clean Energy scenario sets a target for 2040, with 50% of electricity to come from renewable sources and 26% from liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is widely accepted as “transitional fuel”.
A Pragmatic Perspective
Tautho presents the practical viewpoint offered by Charles Kenneth Co, the former President of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI. Co points out the geographical limitations of Cebu compared to regions like Ilocos, where wind and hydropower resources are more abundant. The province’s central location means it misses out on the benefits of strong wind power, which is dissipated by the surrounding islands, and it also lacks the necessary waterfalls to harness hydroelectric power.
Despite these constraints, Co acknowledges the feasibility of tapping into renewable energy sources, citing the establishment of a solar farm on Bantayan Island. However, he emphasizes the need for a balanced energy mix to satisfy Cebu’s thriving industries and growing population.
A Diversified Approach
According to Tautho, collaboration between the government, business sectors, and power producers is key to ensuring an adequate power supply. The integration of energy resources from neighboring regions plays a critical role in meeting Cebu’s energy demands.
During the day, Negros exports surplus solar energy to both Cebu and Leyte. At night, when solar power is unavailable, Leyte provides electricity to the rest of the Visayas Grid from its excess geothermal baseload. While this augments Cebu’s energy supply, the addition of coal-fired power plants is crucial for Cebu to achieve a secure and self-sufficient energy supply.
Cebu’s current dependence on coal-fired power plants is driven by their cost-effectiveness and role as a stable baseload provider, offering the most economical option. The coal plants are also addressing emissions through investments in carbon capture and storage technology, and by utilizing carbon credits.
For Cebu, diversifying its energy sources must be the top priority. The province is welcoming new baseload capacities that tap into both coal and LNG as a transitional fuel, until emerging technologies, such as nuclear power, become viable options for all Philippine energy stakeholders.
Tautho concludes that despite the challenges Cebu faces in its pursuit of 100% renewable energy readiness, the province’s abundant natural resources, including ample sunlight and biomass, present significant potential for renewable energy development.
To foster a sustainable future, investing in renewable energy infrastructure is crucial. For a strategically located province with a robust economy, Cebu provides a solid foundation for this.
So while it may not be ready just yet, and its path may not be straightforward, Cebu can achieve energy self-sufficiency with the right pragmatic perspective and a well-planned, diversified approach.