EDITORIAL — Threatened lakes

The push for renewable energy is laudable, with wind and solar farms gaining popularity. Like any undertaking, however, the push should be balanced with the concerns of other sectors.

Fishers’ groups along with certain environmentalists and players in the tourism industry are calling for a second look at the installation of floating solar panels, currently being planned for Laguna de Bay and man-made Caliraya Lake.

The Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas is seeking a dialogue with the Laguna Lake Development Authority over the planned solar power project that will cover 2,000 hectares of Laguna de Bay. Pamalakaya, which says it supports renewable energy development, points out that the solar project will displace 8,000 fisherfolk, with 2,000 involved in aquaculture.

Over in Lake Caliraya, resort owners and environmentalists are also opposing the planned construction of a floating solar power project beginning in the fourth quarter of the year, with a similar project set in Lumot Lake. The initial phase of these projects, which can generate about 910 megawatts, is aimed to come on stream by 2026. Those opposing the project lament that it will adversely impact tourism and the environment in Caliraya, which was declared a wildlife sanctuary during the first Marcos presidency.

The technology is relatively new, but initial studies indicate that floating solar panels may disrupt the aquatic ecosystem. Studies show it can potentially reduce oxygen levels, and the shade provided by the panels affects photosynthesis in aquatic plants, which can adversely impact water quality and the fish population. Algae eaten by fish could die. Scientists also advise against the construction of floating platforms in areas with unpredictable weather.

Laguna de Bay is a source not only of fish but also of scarce fresh water for Metro Manila and neighboring areas, and the lake must be preserved for these critical functions. Instead, there has been continuing massive reclamation activities along lakeshore areas that the government is either unable or unwilling to control.

Now come the floating solar panels. It will be ironic if the lake ecosystem is ruined by projects that are supposed to be environment-friendly.