A Controversial Floating Solar Farm Project in Caliraya Lake, Laguna
A floating solar farm project in Caliraya Lake, located in Lumban, Laguna, has recently sparked concerns among local establishments and even renewable energy supporters. The project aims to generate 250 megawatts (MW) of power for the national grid. However, its potential impact on tourism, livelihood, and wildlife has raised objections from resort owners, residential managers, and environmentalists.
Caliraya Lake, nestled within the municipalities of Lumban, Cavinti, and Kalayaan in Laguna province, is a man-made water reservoir created by the construction of the Caliraya Dam. The dam itself generates hydroelectric power for the southern Luzon grid. Over the years, Caliraya Lake has become a popular destination for water sports, outdoor recreation, fishing, and is surrounded by various resorts and vacation homes.
The concerns raised by local stakeholders revolve around the construction of floating solar panels over Caliraya and Lumot Lakes. While they express support for renewable energy, they believe that solar installations should not be placed on water bodies. According to Struan Wallace, the owner of Caliraya Resort, the proposed project would block the main thoroughways of the lake, disrupting boat traffic, fishing activities, and water sports. This sentiment is echoed by David Du, the residential development manager at The Hamptons in Caliraya, who highlights the potential negative impact on tourism and the livelihood of the local community.
Another key concern raised by environmental advocate Mark Dia is the uncertainty surrounding the impact of the solar farm on marine animals and bird life. While Dia’s group supports renewable energy initiatives, they object to the chosen site for the project.
The floating solar farm project, known as the NKS Solar One Floating Power Project, has been approved under the government’s Green Lanes for Strategic Investments program, which aims to encourage renewable energy projects. It is a joint venture between Blueleaf Energy Philippines and Nayon Kontrol Systems (NKS). The project aligns with the Department of Energy’s Green Energy Auction Program, which seeks to increase the share of renewable energy to 35 percent by 2040, in line with the country’s development plan.
Jason Gavina, representing Blueleaf Energy Philippines, explains that the selection of Lake Caliraya as the project site was based on careful consideration of various factors. The man-made lake’s original purpose for power generation aligns with their goal of leveraging existing infrastructure for sustainability initiatives. Yield simulation studies have also confirmed the area’s favorable irradiance levels, ensuring optimal energy generation potential. Additionally, Lake Caliraya’s proximity to the Lumban Power Substation enhances the project’s connectivity and efficiency of interconnection to the national power grid.
While the floating solar farm project in Caliraya Lake may be controversial, it is not a pioneering endeavor. Similar projects have been successfully implemented in several countries, including China, Japan, and the United States. In the Philippines, the first floating solar farm was commissioned in the municipality of Baras, Rizal, on Laguna Lake in September 2018. Developed by Winnergy Holdings Corp., the 10-kilowatt (kWp) pilot floating solar farm serves as an example of the viability of such projects.
In conclusion, the proposed floating solar farm project in Caliraya Lake, Laguna, has stirred concerns among local stakeholders. While the project aims to contribute to the country’s renewable energy goals, its potential impact on tourism, livelihood, and wildlife has generated objections. The project’s proponents emphasize the careful selection of the site based on various factors, including existing infrastructure and favorable irradiance levels. As the project moves forward, it is crucial to address the concerns raised by the local community and environmental advocates to ensure a balanced approach towards renewable energy development.
Source: The Manila Times
