By : Ella Gacutan
Legazpi City, Albay – Economic and Climate Counsellor, Embassy of the United Kingdom in the Philippines, Lloyd Cameron took a firm stand against fossil fuels, stating they are no longer sustainable, as he addressed attendees at the Albay Renewable Energy and Investment Summit held on September 27-28, 2024.
Minister Cameron outlined three imperatives for the global energy transition: sustainability, energy security, and affordability. He emphasized that any energy strategy must be environmentally sustainable, economically feasible, and inclusive of all sectors of society, ensuring that no one is left behind. "A sustainable energy future is not just about reducing emissions—it’s about creating jobs, securing energy access for all, and building resilience in communities."
Governor Grex Lagman of Albay, a staunch advocate for clean energy, emphasized the importance of the summit for Albay’s future. “This summit is a crucial step in achieving our goal of 100% renewable energy.
We cannot rely on fossil fuelss that harm our environment and increase the cost of energy for our people. Our push for renewable energy is about securing a sustainable future for Albay and the generations to come,” Lagman said.
The issue of coal resurgence in the Philippines was a focal point of concern at the summit. Ian Rivera, National Coordinator of the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ), strongly criticized the re-emergence of coal projects: “The resurgence of coal in the Philippines is a grave threat to our climate and energy future. Now more than ever, we need to hold leaders accountable and ensure that renewable energy, not coal, is at the forefront of our energy plans.”
Minister Cameron’s speech underscored the UK’s success in phasing out coal, positioning the country as a global leader in the fight against climate change. He stated, “Our transition was not easy, but it was essential. As the first major economy to fully phase out coal, we are proof that it can be done. We are eager to share our experiences and collaborate with nations like the Philippines to make this transition possible.”
For her part, Dir. Marissa P. Cerezo of the Department of Energy’s Renewable Energy Management Bureau emphasized the government’s role: “The Department of Energy is committed to creating an enabling environment that encourages investments in renewable energy. We are proud of Albay’s ambitious target of 100% renewable energy by 2030, and we will continue to support provinces that are leading the way in this transition.”
As coal resurge in the country, stakeholders at the summit expressed concern over the potential backslide into coal dependency. The recent push for coal projects threatens the country’s progress towards its climate goals, undermining the global commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The call for decisive action to phase out coal was loud and clear, with speakers urging for accelerated investments in renewable energy.
With the support of local government leaders, international allies, and civil society organizations, Albay’s transition to 100% renewable energy sends a powerful message that coal is no longer the future and that sustainable, clean energy solutions are within reach.
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