Coal remains affordable — DOE

The Department of Energy (DOE) said coal remains affordable amid rising prices of fuel. Energy Undersecretary Felix William “Wimpy” Fuentebella highlighted the value of coal amid escalating oil prices, which in turn, have translated into higher expenses for Filipinos.

With the prices of commodities rising sharply due to increasing fuel prices and the consequences of the TRAIN law, coal is set to become an even more important alternative energy source.

Fuentebella claimed that the country could not do without coal at current demand levels.

He said the DOE expects new coal-powered plants to “comply with environmental standards”.

Similarly, Philippine Chamber of Coal Mines executive director Arnulfo Robles said coal is used for cement manufacturing and other industrial uses, not just power generation.

“Coal is indispensable for the national development. Even with the introduction of non-conventional energy sources, the country, not to mention most Southeast Asian nations, continue to rely on coal for its power needs,” Robles said.

“It is undeniable that coal gives reliable, stable, sufficient, affordable and dependable power supply to drive economic growth of the country,” he added.

The energy department said coal is also currently being used in the production of commodities such as sardines, instant noodles and processed foods.

The use of cheaper coal (versus more expensive sources such as bunker fuel) enables the price of these commodities to stay significantly cheap and relatively stable.

President Duterte earlier said the country must balance the need for cheap power versus the cost of clean energy.