Manila: As the country grapples with escalating electricity costs and mounting climate threats, the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) and advocacy group Alpas Pinas have advocated for a transition to nuclear energy and the revival of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP).
According to Philippines News Agency, during a media briefing, PNRI Director Carlo Arcilla emphasized the benefits of nuclear energy. Arcilla highlighted that nuclear energy is exponentially more potent than fossil fuels such as natural gas, gasoline, and coal. He pointed out two main factors: energy density and capacity factor, which make nuclear a viable energy source. Arcilla urged that the current scenario presents an opportune moment to embrace nuclear power and rejuvenate the BNPP.
Alpas Pinas lead advocate, Pangasinan 2nd District Representative Mark Cojuangco, noted that the nation currently derives around 78 percent of its energy requirements from coal, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. He stated that nuclear power plants produce almost no greenhouse gases, making them among the cleanest energy alternatives available.
Both Arcilla and Alpas Pinas underscored that the continuous dependence on coal and gas is not only expensive but also exacerbates climate change and extreme weather conditions. Arcilla disclosed that a feasibility study is being conducted in collaboration with Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Co. to assess the rehabilitation of the BNPP. He asserted that revitalizing the plant could substantially lower energy costs and diminish reliance on imported fossil fuels, describing nuclear energy as reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.
Alpas Pinas lead convenor Gayle Certeza shared that the group is spearheading a public information campaign to support nuclear energy, emphasizing both its economic and health advantages. Certeza noted that nuclear energy is not only cleaner but also more affordable, leading to reduced electricity bills for Filipino households, which allows for more allocation of resources to other essential household needs.
