DENR oks 60-ha forestland for solar energy development in Currimao

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Currimao, Ilocos Norte—The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) has finally signed a forest land use agreement (FLAg), allowing the use of about 60 hectares of forestland in Currimao town for the development of a solar energy development project.

On June 20, 2012, the Ilocos Norte government represented by Governor Ma. Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos applied for FLAg at the DENR Regional office in San Fernando City in La Union to occupy, manage and develop the forest land cover of Brgys. Bimmanga and Salindeg-Paguludan in Currimao town for a period of 25 years and renewable for another 25 years.

Provincial environment and natural resources officer Juan delos Reyes along with the DENR Undersecretary for field operations Demetrio Ignacio Jr. signed the agreement at the provincial Capitol with Ms. Marcos.

Based on the six-page lease agreement, the Ilocos Norte government shall submit within six months, upon signing of the said agreement, a Comprehensive Development and Management Plan (CMDP) for the FLAg area, subject for approval by the review committee.

As specified in the CMDP, the solar energy project shall ensure the protection of the environment and conservation of natural resources in the area and it should benefit among others the host community.

Presidential Decree No. 705, otherwise known as the “Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines” authorizes the special use of forestlands for beneficial purposes which do not impair the forest resources.

After conducting a series of evaluation and assessment, the establishment of the solar energy farm in the barren sand dunes of Currimao town near a forest park of fully-grown trees has been found technically and financially feasible.

It may be recalled that in November 2012, a Korean power firm, Mirae Asia Energy Corporation expressed interest in developing a 20-megawatt solar farm in the area.

In point of fact, even the Department of Energy has endorsed the project but up to this date, the company has yet to secure all the necessary permits and commence with the construction of the biggest solar development project in the country.

If not Mirae, Mr. Delos Reyes said other solar energy developers are also planning to put up solar farms in Currimao and in its neighboring towns.

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