Local governments in Albay and Sorsogon received more than PHP29.1 million from hosting the Bacon-Manito (BacMan) geothermal plant.
Through Energy Regulations (ER) 1-94 of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA), host communities of power plants shall receive 1 centavo per kilowatt hour from electricity sales of the power generation companies.
Half of the remittance should go for the electrification fund of the concerned distribution utilities, 25 percent for development and livelihood fund for communities, and 25 percent for reforestation, watershed management, health, and/or enhancement fund of the host local government units (LGUs).
But with coronavirus diseases 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, the Department of Energy (DOE) has allowed the ER 1-94 fund to be utilized for Covid-19 response of the LGUs.
According to Energy Development Corp. (EDC), owner of the BacMan geo plant, PHP7.74 million was allocated for Covid-19 plans and projects of the LGUs.
“Beyond complying with rules and regulations set by the authorities, EDC is more than happy to provide not only clean and uninterrupted power to the grid but also to share its blessings for the renewable power it harnesses from the ground,” EDC assistant vice president and head for Corporate Social Responsibility and Public Relations Allan Barcena said in a statement Thursday.
BacMan geo plant has been energizing Luzon and Visayas grid with two units producing 110 megawatts and 20 MWs, respectively.
“We believe that the benefits we bring to the community is our responsibility and is part of our commitment to our revitalized mission of forging collaborative pathways for a regenerative and decarbonized future,” Barcena added.
Source: Philippines News Agency
