P1.3-B Solar power plant to rise in S. Cotabato

KORONADAL CITY - Power deficiency in South Cotabato will soon be addressed oncethe 5 megawatt solar power is completed in Surallah, South Cotabato, officials said.On Wednesday, the ground breaking of the solar energy plant was held with South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Fuentes and other officials in attendance.To be built in Barangay Centrala, theP1.3-billion solar power-plant projectwill provide 5 MW to South Cotabato Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO-1) during the first phase of the project and another 5 MW after the completion ofsecond phase, according to ProjectPresidentReynaldoCasas of NV Vogt-Philippines Solar Energy One Inc.Casas said solar energy is very environment friendly, cost effective and best alternative power.Fuentes said the project is the answer to worsening power situation in South Cotabato and in Mindanao. Beside, she said, solar power energy can fill in the deficiency of energy in the province.She said the investment would also mean job opportunities for the locals and revenues for the provincial and municipal governments.