Floating solar panels in the Philippines raise concerns among fishermen over Laguna Lake

The Philippines’ initiative to install floating solar panels on Lake Laguna is causing concern among local fishermen who depend on the lake for their livelihoods. Alejandro Alcones, a veteran fisherman, fears the solar project will displace his income. The government aims to meet growing energy demand by switching to renewable sources, using the lake’s vast waters for solar technology.

With limited land resources, floating solar farms offer an attractive alternative for the Philippines, which aims to generate half of its electricity from renewable sources by 2040. Similar projects in the region, such as a floating solar plant in Indonesia, show the potential of the technology. But there are concerns that such projects could harm fishing communities and the local ecosystem.

The Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) has pledged to address fishermen’s concerns, but there are still accusations that there has been a lack of proper public consultation. Fishermen fear the panels could reduce fishing productivity and pose a hazard during typhoons. Despite these challenges, floating solar panels are seen as key to the Philippines’ transition to renewable energy.

(Based on information from the agency.)