Advocating for Nuclear Energy: Representative Mark Cojuangco of Pangasinan’s 2nd District emphasized the critical need for nuclear power in the Philippines during a recent press conference at Lyon Cafe in Mandaluyong City. He argued that adopting nuclear energy is essential to reduce energy costs and tackle the escalating climate challenges caused by fossil fuel dependency.
MANILA – Representative Cojuangco highlighted the urgency of integrating nuclear power into the nation’s energy mix, pointing out its potential to offer a cleaner and more dependable alternative to the predominant use of coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG). He noted that coal accounts for 61.9% of the country’s energy needs, with LNG making up 12.4% as of 2023.
Cojuangco stressed the high energy density of nuclear power, explaining that a small amount of uranium can produce a substantial amount of energy with minimal waste. He illustrated this by comparing the energy output of a gram of uranium to that of 1,800 liters of oil or three tons of coal.
The reliance on imported coal, which drives up energy prices, was another concern raised by Cojuangco. He also mentioned the impending depletion of the Malampaya gas field, the country’s primary LNG source, underscoring the need for alternative energy solutions.
He criticized the ongoing importation of fossil fuels, stating that it drains the country’s resources and the earnings of Filipinos working abroad. Cojuangco suggested leveraging existing nuclear facilities, such as the dormant Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, valued at around USD2 billion, to attract partnerships with companies like Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KNHP).
Cojuangco revealed that South Korea is eager to export its nuclear technology, with 60% of the construction costs being allocated to local civil works. He mentioned that South Korean firms like Hyundai, Daewoo, and Doosan are interested in collaborating on nuclear projects in the Philippines. Additionally, he pointed out other viable options like the AP1000 reactor from Westinghouse and the CANDU 6 reactor from Canada.
He estimated that generating 6,000 megawatts of nuclear power could save the Philippines up to PHP1 trillion in energy costs. Cojuangco also highlighted the safety of nuclear power, citing statistics that show it causes significantly fewer deaths per terawatt-hour compared to coal, oil, LNG, hydro, solar, and wind power.
The press conference was organized by Alpas Pinas, a non-profit organization advocating for affordable and clean energy, particularly nuclear power, and currently led by Gayle Certeza.