Renewable energy sources

Published by the Visayan Daily Star Publications, Inc.

NINFA R. LEONARDIA Editor-in-Chief & President

CARLA P. GOMEZ Editor GUILLERMO TEJIDA III Desk Editor NANETTE L. GUADALQUIVER Busines Editor CEDELF P. TUPAS Sports Editor (On Leave) RENE GENOVE Bureau Chief, Dumaguete MAJA P. DELY Advertising Coordinator

CARLOS ANTONIO L. LEONARDIA Administrative Officer

Renewable energy sources are gaining popularity worldwide because of the threat of global warming. One such source is the geothermal power plant.

Environmentalists express concerns that geothermal plants may have a negative impact on the environment. But they also have positive features, and could help improve the country's chance to acquire self-sufficiency in energy.

Some skeptics say that the release of steam causes drastic changes in temperature, air content and water levels that could be one of the causes of global warming.

In Negros Oriental, a geothermal power plant being managed by the Philippine National Oil Company provides energy by harnessing power from the steam of Mt. Talinis , an active volcano. Valencia is the host town of the Palinpinon geothermal plant.

We see to it that the geothermal power plant continuously monitors air, water and earth conditions. The power plant company carries out programs such as medical outreach, livelihood programs and scholarship incentives for the residents of the areas surrounding the plant.

We hope all companies that make use of our natural resources will be responsible enough to keep our environment clean so that our children's children may also enjoy our universe in the future.*